Cool-Season Grasses

When we say, “Byron Seeds searches the world over for better grasses,” here’s what we mean. Byron Seeds works directly with several grass-breeding companies that get their base genetics from around the world. For example, our popular Kora tall fescue has its origins in our breeding program in Central Europe. The natural weather conditions in that area resulted in a variety that is very cold-tolerant and very drought-tolerant.

One of the latest-maturing varieties on the market today, Athos comes out of European genetics as well. And Lofa festulolium was developed in the Czech Republic by crossing Italian ryegrass and tall fescue. We also have products that were developed in Romania and even New Zealand. A few of our products were developed here in the US. But whereas US breeders have made leaps and bounds in breeding corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfas, they have neglected to advance cool-season grasses at the same pace.

Producers like you have no cause for worry because Byron Seeds has made the commitment to find, test, select, and bring to you, the best cool-season grass the world has to offer.

Description
Cool-season grasses can be used in conjunction with other grasses and/or legumes in pasture applications or in conventional harvesting applications. These grasses typically have a higher energy value than legumes by themselves, and if planted with a legume, greater tonnage can be realized than from a legume planted by itself. Cool-season annuals and perennials work well together because the annuals come on faster and the perennials, once established, have longevity and tonnage.

Management
Avoiding overgrazing or clipping lower than 3 inches helps stand vigor and regrowth. Six to 8 inches are needed for over-wintering and also encourage more root development. Proper fertility is important to ensure stand establishment, expected forage tonnage and quality. Approximate nitrogen needs are 40 lb. for establishment and another 50 to 80 lb. for the total annual requirement. If grass is to be used in a crop rotation where conventional chemicals are used, be aware of the potential chemical residue as the grass could be killed or suppressed.

Establishment
Cool-season grasses can be planted as early as oats. Start with a soil test to determine the fertilizer and lime requirements. Plant at a depth of 1/4” to 3/8” (or a depth no more than five times the diameter of the seed). A smooth, firm seedbed is needed to create optimal seed-to-soil contact for maximum germination. We do not recommend broadcast seeding and will not give a replant if there is a stand failure.  However, if you do have to broadcast grass seed, broadcast seeding requires extensive field preparation along with 25% more seed. For best coverage, use a split application at right angles to each other  or crisscross the field. Grasses need a soil pH of 6.5-7.0 to perform well.