Variety Tests and ListsDLF-TRIFOLIUM markets over 350 varieties worldwide.
Before seeds of a newly developed variety can be marketed, the law requires in most countries inclusion of the variety on the list of approved varieties, and the authorities only approve varieties which pass both the DUS and VALUE tests.
In the value test, the candidates for approval as varieties are sown in fields together with varieties which are already on the list. Qualities and yields (for forage grass and clover) are compared over a period of 2-4 years, during which time the candidates have to demonstrate that they are better than existing varieties.
The candidates also undergo a DUS test. DUS stands for Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability. Comparisons of the size and colour of various plant parts, ensure that the candidates can be separated from existing varieties. The properties which are investigated are governed by the international UPOV agreement.
A national listing of varieties is normally valid for 10 years and it can be extended if the variety possesses special qualities or a very high turnover. When a variety has achieved list status in one EU country, it can be transferred to a common EU list of varieties, and in principle thus be sold throughout the EU. (www.GNIS.Fr).
