Resilient Blue® of Barenbrug: The Gold standard in rust tolerance

As the European turf industry faces ever-changing environmental challenges, sod producers need solutions that guarantee healthy, robust turf year-round. One of the most persistent threats to turf quality is turfgrass rust, a common fungal disease that diminishes aesthetic appeal, weakens plant vitality, and has costly consequences. Enter Resilient Blue® by Barenbrug, a turfgrass innovation that redefines rust tolerance, offering sod producers a reliable solution for disease-resistant, low-maintenance turf.

Why rust matters for sod producers

Turfgrass rust, caused by fungal pathogens like Puccinia spp., thrives in the mild, humid climates prevalent across Europe. This year it has had huge influence because it was followed up by drought and heat in the southern parts of Europe (See Figure 2). A lot of the Poa pratensis varieties were not able to recover before the heat stress.

Rust (Figure 1) manifests as orange or yellow pustules on the grass blades, leading to reduced photosynthesis, weakened plants, and unsightly discoloration. For sod producers, the impact of rust can be significant. Rust-affected turf fails to meet the visual standards demanded by clients, from residential users to high-profile sports facilities. A disease outbreaks can delay harvest times, increase the need for fungicide treatments, and elevate overall production costs. Rust-prone turf can result in dissatisfied customers, damaging a producer’s reputation.

Resilient Blue: A breakthrough in rust tolerance

Resilient Blue® is specifically developed by Barenbrug to combat extreme conditions. Not only it’s the best cool season grass solution in drought and heat. Its exceptional rust tolerance ensures consistent turf quality, even in conditions conducive to fungal growth. Key features that set Resilient Blue apart include:

Genetic Resistance. The Resilient Blue® is developed by Poa pratensis varieties with highest tolerance to rust pathogens. This genetic advantage minimizes the risk of infection and eliminates the need for frequent fungicide applications.
Robust Plant Health. Healthy turf is naturally more resistant to diseases. Resilient Blue’s varieties have efficient nutrient uptake to promote vigorous growth, creating plants that are better equipped to fend off rust infections.
Season-Long Protection. Rust outbreaks often occur during periods of slow growth, such as early spring, late summer or autumn. Resilient Blue® maintains consistent growth and vitality throughout the season, reducing vulnerability during these critical periods.