1. Switchgrass Pancium Virgatum Forage Grass

2. Selecting the field zSince Switchgrass is a native grass it adapts well to many soils types. zDeep and extensive root system. zBest growth on 15 inches or more top soil zNo fertilizer is necessary when planting.

3. Diseases zCommon zSmut zAnthracnose z Rare z Elsinoe leaf spot z Helminthisporium spot blotch z Phoma leaf spot z Fusarium root rot

4. Switchgrass Uses zHay zErosion control zPasture zWildlife habitat

5. Benefits of Switchgrass zNo fertilizer necessary zCan be grown on marginal lands zPrevents soil erosion due to extensive root system  Provides nesting and cover habitat for wildlife

6. Planting time zSpring zApril to May zSoil temperature at least 60 degrees zDo not plant after June 30 - seed will not establish before winter

7. Planting Rate z5 - 8 pounds of seed per acre

8. Yield zHigh z389,000 seeds per pound zYields vary considerably among sites due to soil and precipitation differences. It can be grown in mixtures or monocultures, but switchgrass is grazed more efficiently in a monoculture than in a mixture.

9. Costs zSeed cost currently varies between $3- $4/pound, depending on the desired variety and demand.