Limagrain strengthens RL 2026/27 with wheat, barley and OSR varieties
19th December 2025
Limagrain Field Seeds UK has added several new varieties to the AHDB Recommended List (RL) 2026/27, expanding its portfolio of crop genetics.
Commenting on the latest RL additions, Liam Wilkinson, head of technical for Limagrain Field Seeds UK, said: “In a year where we have seen disease ratings across established varieties change significantly, and two new hard feed wheats enter the AHDB Recommended List with some of the highest untreated yields available, this latest update is a clear testament to the targets of the Limagrain wheat breeding programme.”
LG Defiance is one of the highest-yielding feed wheats on the new RL, achieving 109% of the UK mean yield. With an untreated yield of 95% – the highest currently available – and a strong disease profile, including an 8 rating for yellow rust, LG Defiance is particularly well suited to main and late drilling slots.
The breeder explained that the variety has shown strong performance following roots and maize, while internal trials indicate a positive response to split plant growth regulator (PGR) applications.
Another strong addition is LG Challenger, which also ranks among the highest-yielding winter wheats on the RL. Delivering consistent performance across all regions, the variety excels in northern trials and sits as the joint highest-yielding second wheat.
With excellent grain quality and orange wheat blossom midge (OWBM) resistance, LG Challenger offers a robust and reliable option for growers seeking yield security, Limagrain said.
LG Catapult and LG Calvin CL
In winter barley, LG Catapult sets a new benchmark as the highest-yielding BYDV-tolerant two-row winter barley available for the coming season.
Historically, BYDV tolerance has been associated with a yield penalty; however, LG Catapult is the first Limagrain variety to close the gap on conventional high-yielding feed barleys.
Combined with a comprehensive disease package, the variety provides growers with an effective integrated pest management (IPM) tool, particularly in high aphid pressure situations.
Limagrain has also strengthened its oilseed rape portfolio with LG Calvin CL, a Clearfield-tolerant hybrid winter oilseed rape that joins the RL as the highest gross output variety in the Clearfield sector. Fully loaded offering Limagrain’s signature traits, including TuYV resistance, RLM7, and pod shatter resistance.
The breeder confirmed that LG Calvin CL has demonstrated consistent performance across all regions. Its strong light leaf spot resistance makes it a particularly attractive option for northern growers managing high brassica weed pressure.
A spokesperson for Limagrain said: “These latest additions highlight Limagrain Field Seeds UK’s ongoing commitment to breeding consistent, resilient varieties across its crop portfolio, delivering performance across all UK regions and farming systems.
“Growers are encouraged to watch for further updates on where these new varieties can be seen performing in a range of on-farm situations during the 2026 season.”
READ MORE: New Group 4 wheat Sparkler joins Recommended List
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