For Growers West of the U.S. Continental Divide
Management Profile
- Proven performance in the Southwestern U.S.
- High-yielding, fine stemmed summer forage.
- The inbred lines for Deligrass were chosen for leafiness, fine stems, profuse tillering and exceptional recovery following cutting.
- The outstanding forage yield potential of Deligrass was detected following replicated yield testing along with approximately 300 other hybrids that originated from the same breeding cycle.
- Moderately low concentrations of prussic acid – similar to Piper.
- Exceptional recovery following cutting.
- Well suited for hay, greenchop or summer pasture.
- Performs well in very hot climates with outstanding heat and drought tolerance.
- In a 15 year trial in the Sacramento Valley, Deligrass posted a 31% yield advantage over Piper (13.45 Tons/acre DM vs. 10.29 Tons).
- Plant after danger of frost – Deligrass has moderate cold tolerance allowing for early sowing.
- Seed rate: 120-170 lbs per acre.
- Apply 100-125 pounds of nitrogen per acre preplant and 40-60 pounds per acre after each cutting to maximize yields.
- Deligrass requires one to two inches of water per week; irrigation is recommended for arid and semiarid conditions.
- Harvest at height of 45-50 inches. Leave a 4″-6″ stubble. Do not graze until growth reaches.
- Regrowth: Fast
Field Appearance at Harvest Maturity
Fine-stemmed, very leafy hybrid sudangrass
Seed Characteristics
Seed Count: 40,000 seeds per pound
Seed Color: Varied
