Intermediate Wheatgrass

Intermediate Wheatgrass is a cool-season, open sod-former. It grows with erect culms reaching 2 to 4 feet high in clumps.

AREA OF ADAPTATION: This grass is found in much the same Western regions as Crested Wheatgrass. It requires about 15 inches MAP with a major portion of the precipitation needed in the growing season. It can be seeded on suitable sites from 1,000 feet in the Northeastern Great Plains to as high as 10,000 feet in the Rocky Mountains.

MANAGEMENT: Intermediate Wheatgrass is used for pasture, hay, and for conservation purposes. Do not graze until new seedlings are headed and firmly rooted. Moderate grazing is essential, leave a 4 to 6 inch stubble. Stand longevity an be improved by resting it from grazing for 1 to 2 months during the active growing period. This grass is particularly useful where water supplies may be inadequate during late summer.

PLANTING: Drill seed 1/2 inch deep on fine textured soil and up to 1 inch deep on medium textured soils. Vary the rate in accordance to moisture and desired stand density. Plant before or at the beginning of the 2 month period with the most favorable conditions for germination and seedling establishment.

PLANTING DATES: March - June