Growing Grass
What
Growing perennial grasses, forbs and legumes is an important source of forage for livestock and one of the most reliable ways to protect soil and water. While our signs say Growing Grass, we are really referring to the diversity of perennial forages that are typically grown together for hay and pasture.
Perennial forage on a Franklin County farm (FCNRCD).
Why
Perennial plants do not have to be reseeded or replanted every year, so they do not require annual plowing or herbicide applications to establish. Perennial forages can be grown for dry hay, haylage or pasture.
Perennial crops protect soil from erosion and improve soil structure. They increase ecosystem nutrient retention, carbon sequestration, and water infiltration, and they can contribute to climate change adaptation and mitigation. Overall, they help ensure food and water security over the long term.
Growing perennial crops is especially important on land that would be vulnerable if it were in annual crop production: fields that are sloping, wet, prone to flooding, or adjacent to waterways. Growing perennial forages in these areas means the land can still be a source of food without putting our waterways at risk.
How
Select forage species based on the intended use, level of management, realistic yield estimates, maturity stage, and compatibility with other species. Verify plant adaptation to the area prior to planting. Additional selection factors may include:
Climatic conditions, such as annual precipitation and its distribution, growing season length, temperature extremes and the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone.
Soil condition and landscape position attributes such as; pH, available water holding capacity, aspect, slope, drainage class, fertility level, salinity, depth, flooding and ponding, and levels of phytotoxic elements that may be present.
Resistance to disease and insects common to the site or location.
Do not plant federal, state, or local noxious species.