Orchardgrass

Product Overview

Scientific Name: Dactylis glomerata

Orchardgrass is a cool-season, perennial bunchgrass introduced from Europe and now widely cultivated across North America. Known for its adaptability, shade tolerance, and high forage value, orchardgrass grows up to 5 feet tall and thrives in well-drained soils with as little as 15 inches of annual precipitation. It’s ideal for pasture, hay, and silage systems and performs exceptionally well in mixed stands with legumes like clover or alfalfa.

• High-Quality Forage: Nutritious and palatable for all types of livestock; a favorite for horses and ruminants
• Shade Tolerant: Outperforms other pasture grasses under partial shade
• Summer Regrowth: Strong midsummer regrowth and early spring vigor support multiple cuttings
• Moderate Drought Resistance: Grows well in non-irrigated areas with ≥15″ rainfall annually
• Excellent Companion: Performs best when mixed with legumes, improving forage quality and yield
• Environmental Adaptability: Tolerates moderately poor soils, cold winters (with snow cover), and warm summers

With its quick germination, robust seedling vigor, and reliable regrowth, orchardgrass is ideal for grazing systems, hay producers, and wildlife-friendly landscapes. Its bunch-forming habit means it doesn’t spread aggressively, simplifying maintenance and reducing thatch.

Directions

Seeding Rate:
• 8–12 lb/acre (pure stand)
• Adjust rate downward when mixing with legumes

Seeding Depth:
• Plant ¼″ to ½″ deep into a firm, well-prepared seedbed

Planting Time:
• Late summer to early fall is optimal; spring planting also possible in cool regions
• Soil temperatures should be 50–65 °F, with night temps under 65 °F for fall sowing

Soil Requirements:
• pH between 6.0 and 7.5
• Best on well-drained loams but tolerates moderately poor or compacted soils when managed properly

Maintenance

• Mowing & Grazing: Maintain stand between 4–12″. Graze or mow before seed heads mature for best quality.
• Fertilization: Apply nutrients based on a soil test. Reduce nitrogen if mixed with legumes.
• Irrigation: Relatively drought tolerant but benefits from supplemental watering during dry spells.
• Pest & Disease Management: Watch for rust, aphids, or leaf spot; use integrated pest management when needed.

Ideal For

• Horse and livestock pastures
• High-quality hay and silage production
• Mixed-species pasture blends with clover or alfalfa
• Transition zone and northern U.S. forage systems
• Pollinator- and wildlife-friendly meadows

With strong seasonal growth, diverse applications, and minimal input requirements, Orchardgrass remains a top performer for farmers, ranchers, and conservationists alike. Choose Nature’s Seed for clean, high-vigor orchardgrass seed—field-tested and ready to perform.