Italian Ryegrass

Italian ryegrass provides excellent forage quality that will last 2-3 years, depending on climate and available moisture. Due to its quick regrowth, very early development in spring and prolonged growing period in the fall, this species usually has greater overall productivity than other cool season grasses. Can be drilled into existing stands to boost yields. When planted in the spring, Italian ryegrass will not go to seed in the first season. This results in high quality forage production without the low quality stems and seed heads during the first year. Recently, Italian Ryegrass has been recognized as the perfect rotation crop for plow down or emergency feed. Crops that follow a stand of Italian ryegrass also show higher yields, compared to other green manure crops. Ideal for grazing and silage/balage operations. Does not dry down well for hay.