Skip to content Annual Ryegrass and Allied Seed for Forage: Perennial ryegrass is an important soil stabilization and fodder plant. This species is the most common fodder grass in Europe, and it is also utilized in the United States. Permanent ryegrass is utilized in sheep, dairy, and cattle production as pasture and hay.
- It is frequently combined with alfalfa, clovers, and other types of grass.
- The perennial ryegrass offers the greatest fodder quality of all grasses grown during the chilly season.
- The perennial ryegrass is a bunchgrass that grows between 1 and 2 feet in height and has average lifespan.
- There are several long, slender, rigid leaves towards the plant’s base.
The undersides of leaves are shiny, brilliant, and smooth. Stems of inflorescences are virtually bare. Seed heads are spikes with spikelets developing along the margins of the stem of the seed head. Seeds have no awns (bristles). There are around 227 thousand seeds each pound.
- These grasses have a broad range of soil adaptation, but do best in rich soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
- They yield well in locations having moderate weather.
- They do not endure hot, dry climates or severe winters.
- They will endure moderately damp soils with pretty adequate surface drainage.
- The distribution of perennial ryegrass spans the whole United States.
In a well prepared seedbed, seeds should be sown 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. In the spring, ryegrass may be sown in March, April, or May. Additionally, perennial ryegrass can be sown between mid-August and early September. Typically, 30 to 40 pounds per acre are utilized when ryegrass is planted alone.
- In combinations, it is advised to apply 6 to 10 pounds per acre, depending on usage and partner species.
- In general, the proportion of perennial ryegrass in a mixture should not exceed 20%, as it is very competitive because to its quick germination and robust seedling vigor.
- Typically, ryegrass is harvested for hay as the seed heads begin to appear.
Established perennial ryegrass-clover pastures should be rotationally grazed when spring growth is 3 to 6 inches high. Allowing 7 to 10 inches of regrowth between grazings will enhance yield and persistence. On newly planted seeds, harvesting or grazing should be postponed until the plants reach a height of 10 to 12 inches.
Which perennial ryegrass is best?
The Highest Quality Annual Ryegrass Seed – If you have decided to plant perennial ryegrass seed, you have several possibilities. Consider how much seed you will require based on the square footage of the area you intend to cover. Next, look for the necessary quantity of seed at a reasonable price.
- A popular option among homeowners is Barenbrug’s Turf Star Ryegrass Seed.
- Turf Star Ryegrass Seed is a perennial ryegrass mixture of exceptional quality that is suited for residential uses in cool to temperate areas.
- Turf Star Ryegrass has a dark green hue and is genetically and mechanically pure.
- This type germinates rapidly and tolerates heavy foot traffic well.
You must use a broadcast or drop spreader and apply the annual ryegrass seed according to the instructions on the product packaging. Follow our Grass Seed Planting Guide and Establishment Guide carefully.
