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- Tall Fescue
Tall fescue is a long-lived perennial type grass with a deep root system. It is a cool season bunch grass that adapts well on poorly drained soils. In addition, tall fescue can tolerate salinity, alkalinity and acidity. Tall fescue is widely used in the turf markets and its uses have grown with improved tolerance to heat and drought. Tall fescue needs one year to establish with no seed production in the year of planting. Expected seed production can range from three to five years. The crop can be typically under-seeded to flax or planted without a nurse crop.
Field Selection
Tall fescue responds well to moisture and nitrogen. It is adapted to different soil types, ranging from light textured sandy soils to heavy clay soils. The field must be free of residual herbicides such as Edge, Treflan and others. It is important to review the herbicide history of the field before planting. As well, a field that has had glyphosate applications and is clean of quackgrass is essential.
Weed Control
Wild oats, cleavers and quackgrass are the worst weed problems. Wild oats, cleavers and other broadleaf weeds can be controlled with herbicides; however, there is no in-crop control for quackgrass.
Seeding
Tall fescue is seeded at 4 lbs/acre and conventional seeding equipment can be used.
Harvesting
Tall fescue must be swathed, usually in mid to late July. It is earlier than most crops, which can help split up the harvest. When swathing fescue, some shattering will occur. Therefore, we recommend swathing at night or early in the morning. Harvesting usually takes place about 5 – 7 days after cutting, depending on weather. Dry is 11%, but fescue can be harvested at 14% or 15% and dried in an aeration bin. Heat cannot be used as it can affect germination.
Seed Yield
Tall fescue yields in Manitoba and Saskatchewan have ranged from 500 to over 1,200 lbs/acre net clean seed, with a five-year average of 700 lbs.
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Crop Type | Grass |
| Revenue | High |
| Rotation | Long |
| Moisture Tolerance | Medium – High |
| Harvesting | Early |
Moisture Chart
SEED PRODUCTION GUIDE
CONTACT A SEED PRODUCTION SPECIALIST
From scouting and selection of production fields, fertility programs, pest management and growth regulator recommendations to swathing, harvest timing and cover crop management, a dedicated Seed Production Specialist is with you every step of the way to help maximize returns.