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AGR-175

Forage Identification and Use Guide

Ryegrass, Annual

Annual ryegrass leaves emerge rolled with auricles that wrap around the stem. Stems are round. (For seed head, see Ryegrass, Perennial.)

Description Shiny, dark green, short-lived, perennial bunchgrass with smooth leaves. Grows 2 to 4 feet tall in seed head stage. Underside of leaves is glossy. Forage types have broad, coarse leaves. Turf types are lower growing and have narrower, finer-bladed leaves that resemble bluegrass. Uses Pasture, hay, and erosion control. Advantages High nutritive quality and palatability, excellent seedling vigor, high yields. Disadvantages Short stand life (two to three years). Stands are damaged by high temperatures and drought. Seeding Rate: 15-25 lb/a Depth: ¼-½ in Primary Date: Aug 15-Oct 1 Secondary Date: Feb 1-Apr 15 Harvest First harvest: Apr 20-May 15 Annual yield: 2-4 tons dry matter/a