Danish Seed Sector
Denmark is a leading producer of grass, clover and horticultural seeds.
Danish seed growers produce around 40 % of total EU production of grass seeds, and horticultural seeds, such as spinach, chrysanthemum, cabbage, herbs and flowers, also make up a substantial part of Danish seed production.
Danish seed production dates back several generations, and, over the years, growers and seed companies have gained detailed knowledge and considerable expertise in seed production. Also, the Danish climate favours the production of seeds.
There are approximately 5,000 seed growers in Denmark.
Grass and clover seeds are used for the following three purposes:
- Clover grass or pure grass blends for animal feed, in particular cattle (grazing or silage) or horses, sheep etc.
- Professional use of lawn seed grasses for golf courses, sports facilities and grass verges
- Private home lawns
The widespread use of grass and clover requires constant development of new varieties with improved properties, such as better tolerance to sun, drought, shade, moist soil and resistance to diseases. Among the characteristics of livestock feed grass are high feed quality, improved digestibility and good growth. The important properties of lawn grasses are appearance, wear resistance, shoot density and colour.
All production of clover and grass seeds is certified and controlled by the Danish authorities according to the EU Seed Marketing Directives.
More than 90% of the total production of grass, clover and horticultural seeds is exported to more than 100 countries. Exports represent an annual value of € 275 million.