Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.)

Origin:  Europe

Use:  Grazing, hay

Plant Description

  • General:  Grows 2-3" tall; open panicle seedhead; stems and leaves appear flattened near the base of the crown; tall membranous ligule exists at the leaf collar
  • Life Span:  Perennial
  • Growth Form:  Upright bunchgrass

Management

  • Seeding Rate:  15-20 lbs/acre
  • Seedling Vigor:  Fair
  • Planting Date:  Mid-September to late October
  • Planting Depth:  1/4"
  • Grazing Tolerance: Fair-good
  • Desirable pH:  <5.8
  • Drainage Requirements:  Well-moderately well drained soil
  • Soil Texture:  Moderate-heavy
  • Drought Tolerance:  Fair
  • Season of Use:  September-November; February-May

General:

  • Produces less fall forage than tall fescue
  • Open bunchgrass growth is complimented well with addition of white or red clover under grazing
  • Nematodes can severely affect stands in sandy soils
  • Can be used to thicken alfalfa stands to extend stand life