Business Rural Summer 2024

| 107 Hands-on experience translates into targeted solutions for specific farming challenges. RURAL SERVICES » Wholesale Seeds more established businesses in the market. In addition to Performa, Wholesale Seeds offers a range of exclusive and proprietary seeds, including specialised crops such as fodder beet, which delivers high yields with lower nitrogen leaching compared to alternatives like kale. It also exclusively offers Alabama Lucerne, a drought-resistant variety that has proven successful in challenging environments like Central Otago. “Being small enough to adapt but large enough to compete gives us a unique advantage,” says Patrick. “We can respond quickly to industry changes and stand alongside our customers during tough seasons, while still offering comprehensive solutions comparable to larger competitors.” Patrick and James say the company’s success stems from its practical, grounded approach to farming solutions. “When farmers work with us, they’re getting advice from people who understand farming from both a scientific and practical perspective,” explains James. “Many of our team members are farmers themselves or come from farming backgrounds.” This hands-on experience translates into targeted solutions for specific farming challenges, he says: “For instance, the Syngenta bred SY Dolomite barley, developed in New Zealand in conjunction with Cropmark Seeds, offers excellent standability and disease resistance, while Splice ryegrass, exclusive to Wholesale Seeds, provides fast establishment and strong drought tolerance.” Patrick says that Wholesale Seeds will continue to focus on developing products that address the evolving needs of New Zealand farmers. “The farming sector faces increasing challenges, from climate variability to production pressures,” says Patrick. “Our role is to provide farmers with the tools and knowledge they need to maintain profitable, sustainable operations.”

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