Perennial ryegrass is a more persistent grass than annual ryegrass, but less than fall fescue. One of the highest quality cool-season grasses, perennial ryegrass, is high in protein, highly palatable, highly digestible, and capable of supporting high dry matter intake levels.

Lower growing with high tillering capabilities, perennial ryegrass is cross-pollinated with a branched root system. Seedheads will not form in the establishment year. Tetraploid varieties are taller, less dense, and are more digestible with additional soluble sugars, making them better suited as a mixture component. Shiny and dark green with smooth leaves, perennial ryegrass can grow up to 2 – 3 ft. tall.

Not Recommended

Seeds/Lb: 227,000 – 330,000

Perennial ryegrass can survive on a wide range of soils and under a wide range of climatic conditions. Perennial ryegrass will grow best on well-drained, fertile soils. Historically, perennial ryegrass has not been as productive during cold winters in the north or hot summers in the lower south. Soils with a pH below 5.5 will limit the growth of perennial ryegrass.

Soil pH: 5.0 – 8.3

Optimum Growth Range: 59°F – 77°F

Seeding Depth: ¼” – ½”

 Min Time To Emergence: 5 – 10 days

Ideal Temp: 60°F – 75°F

Monoculture: 10 – 20 Lb/A

Earliest Time To Graze: 8″ – 10″

At Planting: 50 Lb/A N

During Grazing Season: 50 Lb/A N

 Timing: Early Boot Stage

Cuttings During Season: 2

 Minimum Graze Height: 3″ – 4″

Rest Period: 24 days

• Alfalfa
• White Clover
• Red Clover
• Subterranean Clover

Tons of Dry Matter/A: 2 – 5

The expected stand life is 3 years or more when paired with an appropriate clover at greater than 15%.

More persistent than annual ryegrass, but less than other cool-season grass species.

Susceptible to a ‘summer slump’ as temperatures rise.

• Crown Rust

• Armyworms