78 | Think ahead for the autumn sowing The family-owned seed company has been operating in the South Island for more than 30 years. Kelly Deeks RURAL SERVICES » Townsend Seeds Ltd Canterbury-based Townsend Seeds is encouraging local farmers and growers to think ahead for the upcoming autumn sowing season, with ryegrass, clover, and selected vegetable crops such as beets and chards in focus. The family-owned seed company has been operating in the South Island for more than 30 years, supplying high-quality vegetable, forage, and pasture seeds to international markets. Founder and managing director Lynn Townsend says the company’s goal is to support local growers while maintaining its reputation for quality and reliability overseas. “We’ve got a number of experienced agronomists who work closely with growers, providing regular inspections and information on crop management. Our team ensures the crops reach their full potential,” he says. Townsend Seeds produces most of its seed for CONTACT US FOR AUTUMN CROP OPTIONS RYEGRASS, CLOVERS, BEETS, CHARDS, CARROTS 03 325 2306 | admin@seeds4u.co.nz | seeds4u.co.nz 100% Canterbury Owned & Operated overseas markets, including Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa, and has long-standing relationships with farmers across Canterbury and Southland. “Southland has slightly tougher conditions than Canterbury, but growers there produce excellent crops. Expanding into Southland has allowed us to bring more growers into our network,” Lynn says. The company prides itself on being fully New Zealand owned, with all profits reinvested into the South Island economy. Its headquarters in Lincoln and operations in Rakaia underpin a network of professional field staff and modern seed-cleaning facilities, which ensure all crops meet strict quality standards. Lynn highlights the importance of New Zealand’s clean, disease-free environment for seed production. “New Zealand has a worldwide reputation as a high-quality seed producer. Growers know our crops are well-managed and secure, and our isolation protocols prevent cross-pollination issues,” he says. Most Townsend Seeds production is certified under the New Zealand Ministry of Primary Industries scheme, and the company is accredited to the OECD Seed Certification scheme. Despite global challenges, including shipping delays caused by the conflict in Israel and Pakistan, Townsend Seeds continues to supply overseas markets on time. “Oceanic freight has become more complicated. Ships that once passed through the Suez Canal are now going around the Cape of Good Hope, which adds about three weeks to transit. We have to plan carefully to ensure our customers receive their seed when they need it,” Lynn says. The growing season is looking promising this year. “The crops are looking very good at the moment. Last year we had rain in January that affected harvests, but we are hopeful conditions stay favourable,” he adds. Townsend Seeds is also actively seeking new growers to expand its portfolio. “We have a long-standing reputation in the industry, and with more growers on board, we can continue to meet overseas demand. Experience is key—our growers need to be prepared to listen, learn, and work alongside our field reps who bring years of expertise to the table,” Lynn says. Over the decades, Townsend Seeds has built a robust international presence, originally through extensive overseas travel but increasingly via video conferencing. While Lynn looks forward to returning to face-to-face meetings and international seed conferences, he says the company remains committed to its local growers and New Zealand economy. “Ultimately, we want farmers thinking about what they’re planting this autumn for their spring crops, and we want to support them with everything they need. Our success overseas depends on strong, professional growers right here at home,” he says.
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