ARS | Publication request: CERTIFIED GRASS VARIETIES RECOMMENDED FOR NEBRASKA

Submitted to: USDA NRCS Technical Notes
Publication Type: Government Publication
Publication Acceptance Date: March 1, 2006
Publication Date: January 30, 2006
Citation: Anderson, B., Kucera, M., Vogel, K.P., Mitchell, R. 2006. Certified grass varieties recommended for Nebraska. USDA NRCS Technical Guide Notice 568 - Pastureland and Hayland Interpretations - Certified Perennial Grass Varieties Recommended for Nebraska p. 42-51.

Technical Abstract: About 30 grass species adapted to Nebraska are known to have characteristics that make them valuable enough that improved varieties have been developed for pasture, range, and conservation seedings. These species grow over broad geographic areas and have diverse genetic traits that help individual plants adapt to specific soil and site conditions. The selection of adapted varieties can be just as critical to a successful seeding of a pasture or rangeland site as the species choice. Adapted varieties perform better, are adapted to wider areas, and are superior in vigor, production, persistence, and resistance to insects and diseases within their area of adaptation. Planting certified seed assures genetic purity and high seed quality. Certified seed is planted, grown, harvested, processed, and marketed following strict standards. Inspections during production and processing help assure that these standards have been met. Only seed that meets these standards may carry the certified seed label. Planting seed of questionable or unknown origin and performance is a gamble that most people cannot afford. A guide for determining the best cultivars of adapted species for each of the Major Land Resource Areas of Nebraska and regions of adjacent states was developed and updated using results of research trials. The guide includes a map and tables for selecting adapted grass species and varieties for Plant Adaptation Regions within the state.