SHAUN

Agrotechnics and Potential of 'Shaun' Tall Fescue

The 'Shaun' tall fescue, a selection achievement by Feldsaaten Freudenberger, was officially registered in Ukraine in 2023. This variety demonstrates high plasticity, adapting well to the Steppe, Forest-Steppe, and Polissya regions. Unlike many forage grasses, 'Shaun' requires strict adherence to agrotechnological protocols to unlock its full yield potential.

Sowing and Soil Preparation

A fine-crumb soil structure is critical for the successful establishment of tall fescue. Optimal sowing times are early spring (as soon as the soil is workable) or late summer to early autumn (August-September), allowing plants to strengthen before extreme temperatures occur. Sowing depth should not exceed 1.5–2 cm, as the small seeds are sensitive to deep burial.

• Seeding rate: 20–25 kg/ha for pure stands.
• Sowing pattern: Row seeding with 12.5–15 cm spacing.
• Soil requirements: The variety prefers fertile, well-aerated soils with a neutral or slightly acidic pH. 'Shaun' tolerates temporary waterlogging well but requires drainage on heavy clay soils.

Maintenance and Yield Management

During its first year, 'Shaun' develops slowly, making weed control the primary management task. During the tillering phase, it is essential to provide sufficient nitrogen nutrition to build a robust root system. In subsequent years, the fescue responds highly to split nitrogen applications after each cutting.

Irrigation is a decisive factor in the Steppe zone. While the variety possesses inherent drought resistance, achieving maximum green mass under moisture-deficit conditions requires irrigation during the stem elongation phase and after each harvest. The optimal cutting height is 5–7 cm, which stimulates regrowth and prevents the exhaustion of the tillering node.