Towards a Greener Tomorrow

Less Water

Over the last decade we have been confronted with increasingly extreme weather conditions. More than before, spring and summer periods seem to be characterised by longer spells of drought or, in contrast, extreme rainfall. Nevertheless, water is essential for the germination, establishment and growth of grass. The changing weather conditions have therefore led to higher demands with respect to the characteristics of grass.

Barenbrug’s WaterSaver® stays green longer and recovers more quickly following a period of drought. Thanks to its deep rooting, the Water Saver^® grass obtains water from deeper soil layers. Standard grass plants root less deep and can only obtain water from the top layer (the upper 10 to 15 cm). Such plants will soon die under dry conditions, even before a stage of extreme drought is reached. The tall fescue contained in Water Saver^® can root to depths of more than 60 cm and transports water from deeper soil layers. Smooth stalked meadow grass ensures horizontal growth, resulting in an extensive network of underground rhizomes and roots.

Fewer Pesticides

Stress situations which lead to grass diseases (fungi) can occur on sports fields, lawns and golf courses. The changing climate is also a cause of such diseases. Fungi manifest themselves in various ways and can attack the grass cover to a serious degree, reducing playing quality. ‘Prevention is better than cure’ is the message here.

As part of the Barenbrug propagation programme, selections are made based on genetic cultivar characteristics, such as resistance to red thread, dollar spot and fusarium. New cultivars are being tested for these diseases all over the world. Only the best cultivars are considered for registration in national cultivar catalogues.

Less Mowing

Sustainable grass management also means less mowing. 

During the growth season, grass can produce a considerable mass of material as a result of high temperatures, moisture and plenty of light. This means that the grass needs to be mowed more frequently, involving more work, equipment costs and fuel (fossil energy) and at the same time resulting in increased CO2 emissions. Barenbrug has invested heavily in research into the biomass production of grass. 
Research has shown that not only are there differences between species, but that within species too, in other words at cultivar level, there are significant differences in growth height and grass production. 

Barenbrug's first solution for less mowing was Barkoel. This famous crested hairgrass, demonstrated reduced mowing frequency by 35% while the excellent quality of ornamental lawns stays the same (Proven by STRI research, the world’s leading authority for turf research ).

Fewer Fertilisers

Grass needs nutrition in order to perform well. Nitrogen is one of the most important engines for the growth of plants. However, mineral fertilisers are made from non-renewable sources using an energy-intensive process. Too much fertiliser also poses a threat to the ecosystem in surrounding ditches.
The selection of the right grass mixture for the purpose can make a difference here too. Some grass mixtures perform just as well with less nutrition. This means that fewer fertilisers are required without any sacrifices needing to be made in terms of quality.

Years of independent research carried out by STRI have shown that red fescue and hard fescue perform excellently on lawns and golf courses under low to very low input fertilisation.  Barenbrug’s BAR Fescue produces a higher green quality at lower levels of fertilization, the desired grass is main while 50% less fertilisation is required!  

More Biodiversity

Biodiversity in grass ecosystems is crucial for environmental stability and sustainability. 

Diverse species enhance ecosystem resilience, improve soil health, and support a wide range of wildlife. By promoting genetic variation, biodiversity helps grasslands adapt to changing climates, pests, and diseases, ensuring long-term ecological balance and productivity. 

At Barenbrug, we embrace biodiversity to develop robust, sustainable grass solutions that contribute to a healthier planet. 
Happy Lawn® Grass Technology combines mowable flowers with a resilient lawn. These flowers can be mowed time after time, yet they keep coming back, making it easier than ever to maintain a lush and biodiverse lawn. Mowable flowers and leguminous plants become magnets for pollinators, producing nectar, pollen, and other essential food sources. Bees, butterflies, bumblebees, and a host of other small animals are drawn to this abundant source of sustenance, transforming your lawn into a buzzing, fluttering sanctuary of life.