United States 

Department of 

Agriculture

Natural 

Resources 

Conservation 

Service

Plant Materials Center

June 2011

Prairie Sandreed

(Calamovilfa longifolia)

and

Sand Bluestem

(Andropogon hallii)

Performance Trials

North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota
Who We Are

Plants are an important tool for conservation. 

The Bismarck Plant Materials Center (PMC) is part 

of the United States Department of Agriculture, 

Natural Resouces Conservation Service

(USDA, NRCS). It is one of a network of 27 

centers nationwide dedicated to providing 

vegetative solutions to conservation problems. 

The Plant Materials program has been providing 

conservation plant materials and technology 

since 1934.

Contact Us

USDA, NRCS Plant Materials Center

3308 University Drive

Bismarck, ND 58504

Phone: (701)250-4330

Fax: (701)250-4334

http://Plant-Materials.nrcs.usda.gov

Acknowledgements

Cooperators and partners in the warm-season 

grass evaluation trials, together with the USDA, 

NRCS Plant Materials Center at Bismarck, ND, 

included: U.S. Department of Interior, Fish and 

Wildlife Service (J. Clark Salyer National Wildlife 

Refuge near Upham, ND; Wetland Management 

District at Fergus Falls, MN; and Karl E. Mundt 

National Wildlife Refuge near Pickstown, 

SD); South Dakota Department of Agriculture 

Forestry Division; South Dakota Department of 

Game, Fish, and Parks; Minnesota Department 

of Natural Resources, Division of Forestry; 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; USDA, NRCS 

field and area offices and Soil and Water 

Conservation District offices located at 

Bottineau, ND; Fergus Falls, MN; Lake Andes, 

SD; Onida, SD; Rochester, MN; and Pierre, SD; 

Southeastern Minnesota Association of Soil and 

Water Conservation Districts; Hiawatha Valley 

Resource Conservation and Development 

Area (Minnesota); and North Central Resource 

Conservation and Development Office (South 

Dakota).

In this photo: 

Prairie sandreed seed 

with fuzz removed 

(debearded)

In this photo: 

Sand bluestem seed that 

has not been debearded
Prairie Sandreed

(Calamovilfa longifolia)

and

Sand Bluestem

(Andropogon hallii)

Performance Trials

North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota

Dwight Tober, Plant Materials Specialist; Nancy Jensen, Agronomist; 

and Wayne Duckwitz, Plant Materials Center Manager; 

USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Bismarck, North Dakota

Performance information is important when selecting grass species and varieties for a specific location and 

intended use. Nine species of warm-season grasses were evaluated from 1982 to 1992 at six locations across 

North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota. Each species included two or more varieties or seed sources. 

Data was collected for all species. Prairie sandreed and sand bluestem performance will be presented in this 

report. Information described includes biomass yield, stand index (estimate of stand density), and phenology 

(documents the occurence of first ripe seed). These are all characteristics related to overall performance and 

are a measure of adaptation, and overall fitness of the plant to the site (Jacobson et al 1986).

Trial Sites

The grasses were studied 

at various locations 

in cooperation with 

numerous partners (see 

acknowledgements inside 

front cover). Trial sites 

were located near Upham, 

ND; Fergus Falls, MN; 

Rochester, MN; Lake Andes, 

SD; Onida, SD; and Fort 

Pierre, SD (Fig. 1). Soils and 

precipitation information 

are included with the tables 

(pages 8-13). Growing 

seasons at the six locations 

varied from an average of 

110 days at Upham, ND, 

to an average of 150 days 

at Rochester, MN. Average 

annual precipitation ranged 

from 15 to 30 inches.

1

Figure 1. Locations of warm-season grass trials in 

North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota
Methods and Materials

The experimental design was a randomized 

complete block with three replications for 

data collection. An evaluation array was 

seeded for demonstration purposes. Plot 

size varied from 12 to 15 feet in width, and 

from 60 to 100 feet in length. A clean, firm 

seedbed was prepared by disking, harrowing, 

and roller packing. All plots were seeded 

using the same grass drill. Herbicides were 

applied for weed control. Biomass residue 

was removed each spring either by mowing 

and raking, or burning. No fertilizer was 

applied.

Data collection at all six locations included stand ratings, plant height, weed contamination, stand index 

density, phenology, and annual biomass production. Only biomass yield, stand density, and phenology are 

presented and discussed in this report.

Stand index density was determined by estimating the number of plants in a 9-inch by 16-inch quadrat. Ten 

quadrats were systematically counted near the center line of each plot. A density index rating was developed. 

Values ranging from 0 to 40 units per square foot were used to estimate density for each subsample.

Dry matter yield was documented at all sites beginning the second year following establishment. Biomass 

production was determined by clipping a 2-foot by 10-foot subplot in each plot with a forage harvester. 

Sampling dates were as close as possible to the end of the growing season (first killing frost). The sample 

plots were systematically located within each plot across the treatment and clipped to a stubble height of 

approximately 2 inches. After weighing the large samples, small (100 gram) grab samples were weighed, 

oven-dried at 60 degrees C for 48 hours, and used for dry matter determinations. Biomass yield is reported 

in pounds per acre (USDA NRCS 1983-1993).

2

All plots were planted into a clean, firm seedbed 

using the same grass drill
Ten frames in 

each plot were 

sampled to 

determine the 

stand density

Plant

 height

 was 

recorded

3

Harvesting 

10-foot by 

2-foot strips 

to determine 

biomass 

yield
4

Sand Bluestem

Sand bluestem (Andropogon hallii Hack.) is a tall, perennial, warm-season grass that is closely related to 

big bluestem. It has more prominent rhizomes and its blue-green leaves are more gray and waxy than big 

bluestem. It is a tallgrass prairie plant that is typically 3-7 feet tall. The turkey foot shaped seed heads of sand 

bluestem have dense yellow hairs. It is not as palatable as big bluestem but can provide excellent grazing.

Sand bluestem is found growing almost exclusively on sandy soils. It is found naturally from northern 

Mexico into the central plains where it is an important species of sandhill prairie communities. This species 

mainly occurs farther west than Iowa but is also found in Illinois and Indiana. It is generally not found where 

annual precipitation is less than 14 inches, or greater than 30 inches.

Uses of sand bluestem include erosion control plantings on sandy, loamy sand, or sandy loamy sites. It 

establishes fairly readily on blowouts where its rhizomes help in stabilizing sandy soils. Generally, it is 

planted as a mixture with other warm-season species. Forage quality is good and it is high in palatability and 

crude protein before heading. Wildlife make use of the clump-like growth habit for cover, and use the seeds 

as a food source. Sand bluestem is becoming more popular as an accent plant in landscaping because of its 

distinctive blue color and golden seed heads (USDA NRCS 2011).
5

Variety/Seed Source Origins (USDA SCS 1994)

‘Garden’

Garden sand bluestem originated from a composite 

of several individual collections of native plants 

from Garden County in west central Nebraska. 

Collections were made in 1957 by Murray Cox 

and R.L. Carver from the Soil Conservation 

Service Plant Materials Center in Scottsbluff, 

NE. Individual collections were increased and 

composited. The composite was field tested as 

PM-NB-378 in several parts of Nebraska and 

South Dakota. It was released in 1960. 

It is described as vigorous, tall, and leafy with 

good seed yields. Biomass yield was higher for 

Garden compared to Goldstrike at every location. 

Stand persistence was also better for Garden. 

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

Upham

Fergus Falls

Lake Andes

Onida

Rochester

Ft. Pierre 

pounds/acre

Location

Garden sand bluestem

5-year average biomass yield

‘Goldstrike’

Goldstrike sand bluestem originated from 

domestic collections made in 1953 from the 

western and northern sandhills of Nebraska and a 

source from western Oklahoma by L. C. Newell 

and W. L. Tolstead. Two lines were selected 

from the collections. One of the lines called 

Western Sandhills Yellow traces to collections in 

the north central Nebraska sandhills. The lines 

were developed independently by successive 

generations of mass selection for lack of rust and 

for color of inflorescence. The unique gold color 

of the inflorescence characterizes the variety. 

It was released in 1973, cooperatively by 

Nebraska Agriculture Experiment Station and 

USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Lincoln, 

NE. Plants are variable in height and spread from 

short to long rhizomes. Characteristic leaf color is 

blue-green in early growth and changes to yellowgreen at maturity.

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

Upham

Fergus Falls

Lake Andes

Onida

Rochester

Ft. Pierre 

pounds/acre

Location

Goldstrike sand bluestem

5-year average biomass yield
Prairie Sandreed

Prairie sandreed (Calamovilfa longifolia (Hook.) Scribn.) is a tall, perennial, warm-season grass. Plant 

growth above ground begins in mid-May, which is earlier than most perennial warm-season grass species. 

The extensive, scaly, sharp pointed rhizomes and coarse, fibrous roots are important erosion control 

attributes. The plants are typically 2-5 feet tall. The leaves are flat to rolled, smooth, 1⁄8 to 1⁄2 inch wide and 

tapering to a long, fine point. The light green foliage becomes straw colored as it matures. The seed head is 

a panicle that is usually contracted except when flowering. Flowering dates range from July through August 

and seed set is in September. The plant is coarse and tough, but produces considerable biomass that is of fair 

quality for cattle, horses, and sheep during its initial growth and after it cures on the stem for fall and winter 

grazing. New plantings establish slowly. Prairie sandreed is susceptible to stem and leaf rust in higher rainfall 

areas.

Prairie sandreed occurs primarily on coarse or sandy soil sites in typically low precipitation (10-20 inches) 

zones. Occasionally it is found on clay soils or loess. Prairie sandreed is not tolerant to salt, spring flooding 

or high water tables, but will grow on soils that are somewhat alkaline. It commonly grows in clumps or 

colonies in mixed native stands of sand bluestem, little bluestem, sand lovegrass, and yucca. It is native 

to the United States and is found growing from Michigan and Ontario to Alberta, south to Illinois, Iowa, 

Kansas, Colorado, and Idaho (Barkworth et al 2007).

Erosion control and wildlife habitat on sandy sites are primary uses for prairie sandreed. The extensive 

fibrous root system and rhizomatous growth habit make it an excellent species for stabilizing sandy sites. It 

also provides a food source for grazing and browsing wildlife in early spring and summer. The tall upright 

growth habit allows for accessible forage in the winter. Prairie sandreed plant communities tend to be very 

site specific patches that provide valuable cover for wildlife in areas that are often void of taller vegetation. 

Seed is used by birds and rodents (USDA NRCS 2011).

6
Variety/Seed Source Origins (USDA SCS 1994)

‘Goshen’

Goshen originated from seed harvested, in 1959, near 

Torrington in southeast Wyoming. The field collection 

was increased without selection. The collection 

was evaluated as WY-17 and P-15588. The variety 

was cooperatively named and released by the Soil 

Conservation Service and the Montana and Wyoming 

Agricultural Experiment Stations in 1976. 

Performance of Goshen and Bowman, including 

biomass yield, was very similar at each of the six 

locations.

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

Upham

Fergus Falls

Lake Andes

Onida

Rochester

Ft. Pierre

pounds/acre

Location

Goshen prairie sandreed

5-year average biomass yield

Bowman (ND-95)

Bowman originated from seed that was collected in the 

fall of 1956 from a field in southwestern North Dakota 

(Bowman County). The collection was evaluated as 

accession PI-477995 (ND-95). Plants grown from the 

Bowman County seed were compared at the Bismarck, 

ND, NRCS Plant Materials Center with other field 

collections. ND-95 was not formally released because of 

similar performance to Goshen. Performance of ND-95 

was better than Goshen in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, 

Canada. The selection was informally released as 

Bowman.

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

Upham

Fergus Falls

Lake Andes

Onida

Rochester

Ft. Pierre

pounds/acre

Location

Bowman prairie sandreed

5-year average biomass yield

PI-477007

This accession originated from a native seed collection in Mason County, located in central Michigan. It is 

one of four parent lines that comprise Koch Germplasm, a select class release from the Rose Lake, MI, NRCS 

Plant Materials Center and Michigan Association of Conservation Districts. PI-477007 was tested only at the 

Rochester location where the 5-year biomass yield was 1221 lb/ac compared to 596 for Goshen, and 787 for 

Bowman. 

7
8

Upham, ND Trial Location

The soils are a very productive Great Bend silty clay 

loam. Average annual precipitation for the five years of 

biomass harvest was near normal. 

Garden sand bluestem biomass yield was higher than 

Goldstrike every year except 1984. Its 5-year average 

yield was more than 6,000 lb/ac. Both varieties had 

good stands with stand index densities of 28. The 

varieties originated in Nebraska and were later maturing. 

Phenology was the same, with both varieties being at 50 

percent seed ripe in early August.

Stands of prairie sandreed were slower to establish and 

maintained a more open cover. Bowman had a slightly 

higher stand index than Goshen, 12 compared to 10. 

Biomass yields were not significantly different between 

Bowman and Goshen, except in 1985. The 5-year average 

yield for each entry was over 5,000 lb/ac. Phenology was 

the same with both varieties being at 50 percent seed ripe 

in early August.

Upham, ND (MLRA 55A, north central North Dakota) 

Average Annual Precipitation: 16.08 inches

Soils: Great Bend silty clay loam

Sand Bluestem Stand

Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 Avg Rank 1982-1984* Early August

 Precip. deviation (0.98) (0.9) (1.63) (-0.09) (-1.23)

 Garden 7855a 3705b 7266a 6694a 5993a 6303 1 28 5

 Goldstrike 6324a 5972a 3357b 4338b 3667a 4732 2 28 5

Prairie Sandreed Stand

Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 Avg Rank 1982-1984* Early August

 Precip. deviation (0.98) (0.9) (1.63) (-0.09) (-1.23)

 Bowman 3437a 3339a 8352a 7276a 4389a 5359 2 12 7

 Goshen 3626a 4522a 7285b 7295a 5372a 5620 1 10 7

Statistical Analyses: Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, means with same letter are not significantly different (P≤.05) 1

Biomass: flail-type forage harvester, 2’ x 10’ strip in each plot clipped to a 2-inch stubble height 2

Stand Index: Estimate of plant density in 10 (1.0 sq ft) quadrats per plot. Full frame=40 3

Phenology (1984): 1=vegetative; 2=jointing; 3=first emergence of inflorescence; 4=first anthesis,10 culms or more;

 5=50% anthesis; 6=first seed ripe; 7=50% seed ripe; 8=seed mature; 9=complete dormancy

* Data is an average from these years
9

Fergus Falls, MN Trial Location

The soils on this site are a well drained loam complex 

in calcareous glacial till. Precipitation was well below 

normal in 1983 (-3.9) and 1987 (-7.2), and more than 6 

inches above normal in 1986. 

There were no significant differences in biomass yield in 

any year, but Garden yields were higher than Goldstrike 

every year except 1984. Garden averaged 3,529 lb/ac, 

and Goldstrike averaged 2,924 lb/ac for five years. Plant 

densities were good for both varieties. Each had a stand 

index of greater than 20. Phenology in early September 

was at 50 percent anthesis for both varieties.

Prairie sandreed again had a more open stand. Each 

variety had an index density of only 6, and the same 

phenology at 50 percent anthesis. Biomass yields were 

similar at approximately 2,500 lb/ac for the 5-year 

average. Annual biomass yields for both sand bluestem 

and prairie sandreed were closely aligned with the highs 

and lows in annual precipitation.

Fergus Falls, MN (MLRA 102A, west central Minnesota)

Average Annual Precipitation: 23.52 inches 

Soils: Barnes and Langhei loam

Sand Bluestem Stand

Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

 (inches) 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 Avg Rank 1983-1984 Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (-3.96) (1.54) (.85) (6.23) (-7.2)

 Garden 3076a 3672a 3832a 4454a 2609a 3529 1 24 5

 Goldstrike 2673a 5247a 2780a 2594a 1325a 2924 2 24 5

Prairie Sandreed Stand

Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

 (inches) 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 Avg Rank 1983-1984 Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (-3.96) (1.54) (.85) (6.23) (-7.2)

 Bowman 2446a 3786a 2169a 3357a 1203a 2592 2 6 5

 Goshen 1635a 3376a 3221a 3141a 1836a 2642 1 6 5

Statistical Analyses: Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, means with same letter are not significantly different (P≤.05) 1

Biomass: flail-type forage harvester, 2’ x 10’ strip in each plot clipped to a 2-inch stubble height 2

Stand Index: Estimate of plant density in 10 (1.0 sq ft) quadrats per plot. Full frame=40 3

Phenology (1983): 1=vegetative; 2=jointing; 3=first emergence of inflorescence; 4=first anthesis,10 culms or more;

 5=50% anthesis; 6=first seed ripe; 7=50% seed ripe; 8=seed mature; 9=complete dormancy

* Data is an average from these years
10

Lake Andes, SD Trial Location

The soils are a fertile Agar silt loam. Biomass yields 

were influenced by three years of “well above average” 

precipitation. Precipitation was 12.9 inches (1984), 10.7 

(1986), and 3.71 (1987) above the average. This was the 

southernmost evaluation location. 

Sand bluestem biomass yield for each variety was more 

than 7,000 lb/ac in 1986. Garden yields were slightly 

higher every year, but there was no significant differences. 

Five-year average biomass yields were each over 4,000 

lb/ac. Stand indexes were similar at 15 for Garden, and 16 

for Goldstrike. Phenology was the same for both varieties 

at 50 percent anthesis in early September. 

Bowman prairie sandreed (18) had more than three 

times the stand index density of Goshen (5). It also was 

earlier maturing and was at 50 percent ripe seed in early 

September compared to Goshen at 50 percent anthesis. 

Bowman was higher than Goshen in 5-year average 

biomass yield, with 1,080 lb/ac compared to 713 lb/

ac. Stem and leaf rust were heavy on both varieties and 

reduced stands and persistence.

Lake Andes, SD (MLRA 55C, southeast South Dakota)

Average Annual Precipitation: 21.37 inches

Soils: Agar silt loam

Sand Bluestem Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 Avg Rank 1984 Early Aug.

 Precip. deviation (12.9) (-.21) (10.7) (3.71) (1.0)

 Garden 3073a 4134a 7433a 3927a 4321a 4578 1 15 5

 Goldstrike 2702a 3996a 7219a 2947a 3865a 4146 2 16 5

Prairie Sandreed Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 Avg Rank 1984 Early Aug.

 Precip. deviation (12.9) (-.21) (10.7) (3.71) (1.0)

 Bowman 2000a 179a 1653a 488b no sample 1080~ 1 18 7

 Goshen 446b 0 959a 734a no sample 713~ 2 5 5

Statistical Analyses: Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, means with same letter are not significantly different (P≤.05) 1

Biomass: flail-type forage harvester, 2’ x 10’ strip in each plot clipped to a 2-inch stubble height 2

Stand Index: Estimate of plant density in 10 (1.0 sq ft) quadrats per plot. Full frame=40 3

Phenology (1984): 1=vegetative; 2=jointing; 3=first emergence of inflorescence; 4=first anthesis,10 culms or more;

 5=50% anthesis; 6=first seed ripe; 7=50% seed ripe; 8=seed mature; 9=complete dormancy
11

Onida, SD Trial Location

The soils at the site are a Lowry silt loam, which is 

fertile but droughty. Average annual precipitation was 

considerably above normal in 1988 (-4.07 inches). 

Garden was higher in biomass yield every year, and 

produced almost 7,000 lb/ac in 1986. Five-year average 

forage yields were 3,081 lb/ac for Garden, and 2,095 

lb/ac for Goldstrike. Stand index densities were high for 

both varieties at 28 for Garden, and 32 for Goldstrike. 

Maturity was similar in early September at first or 50 

percent seed ripe.

Goshen was higher in biomass forage yield every year 

except 1986. Each variety produced more than 7,500 

lb/ac in 1986. Five-year average biomass yields were 

3,282 for Bowman, and 3,900 for Goshen. Average stand 

index densities were similar in early September at 50 

percent anthesis, or first seed ripe.

Onida, SD (MLRA 53C, central South Dakota)

Average Annual Precipitation: 17.47 inches

Soils: Lowry silt loam

Sand Bluestem Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 Avg Rank 1984-1985* Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (.13) (5.27) (-1.86) (-4.07) (.33)

 Garden 1567a 6861a 3832a 1290a 1853a 3081 1 28 6

 Goldstrike 1132a 5332a 2435a 910a 668a 2095 2 32 7

Prairie Sandreed Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 Avg Rank 1984-1985* Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (.13) (5.27) (-1.86) (-4.07) (.33)

 Bowman 1181a 7791a 3499a 1649a 2292a 3282 2 15 6

 Goshen 1529a 7578a 4446a 2196a 3751a 3900 1 12 5

Statistical Analyses: Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, means with same letter are not significantly different (P≤.05) 1

Biomass: flail-type forage harvester, 2’ x 10’ strip in each plot clipped to a 2-inch stubble height 2

Stand Index: Estimate of plant density in 10 (1.0 sq ft) quadrats per plot. Full frame=40 3

Phenology (1986): 1=vegetative; 2=jointing; 3=first emergence of inflorescence; 4=first anthesis,10 culms or more;

 5=50% anthesis; 6=first seed ripe; 7=50% seed ripe; 8=seed mature; 9=complete dormancy

* Data is an average from these years
12

Rochester, MN Trial Location

The soils are a well drained, rolling silt loam. This 

location had the highest average annual precipitation, 

29.58 inches, of the six evaluation sites. Precipitation was 

quite variable. It was below normal in 1987 (-2.63), 1988 

(-8.19), and 1989 (-6.85). Precipitation was substantially 

above normal in 1990 (14.36) and 1991 (7.33). 

Stand index densities were both 23 for the sand bluestem 

varieties. Garden was higher than Goldstrike every year 

in biomass yield and more than twice as high for the 

5-year average. Phenology was the same at first seed ripe 

in early September. 

The more eastern source of prairie sandreed (PI‐477007) 

had the best biomass yield every year. Five-year biomass 

yield averaged 1,221 lb/ac, compared to 787 lb/ac for 

Bowman, and 596 lb/ac for Goshen. Stand index densities 

were similar at 6 and 7. Bowman was the most mature 

in early September with ripe seed, compared to the other 

two varieties with 50 percent ripe seed.

Rochester, MN (MLRA 105, southeast Minnesota)

Average Annual Precipitation: 29.58 inches

Soils: Mount Carrol silt loam

Sand Bluestem Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 Avg Rank 1985-1987* Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (-2.63) (-8.19) (-6.85) (14.36) (7.33)

 Garden 4820a 2296a 2903a 3561a 3314a 3379 1 23 6

 Goldstrike 3419a 979a 807b 1796a 930b 1586 2 23 6

Prairie Sandreed Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 Avg Rank 1985-1987* Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (-2.63) (-8.19) (-6.85) (14.36) (7.33)

 Bowman 555a 767a 677a 1482a 456a 787 2 6 8

 Goshen 773a 560a 742a 735a 168a 596 3 6 7

 PI-477007 1175a 1122a 1404a 1554a 849a 1221 1 7 7

Statistical Analyses: Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, means with same letter are not significantly different (P≤.05) 1

Biomass: flail-type forage harvester, 2’ x 10’ strip in each plot clipped to a 2-inch stubble height 2

Stand Index: Estimate of plant density in 10 (1.0 sq ft) quadrats per plot. Full frame=40 3

Phenology (1988,1989): 1=vegetative; 2=jointing; 3=first emergence of inflorescence; 4=first anthesis,10 culms or more;

 5=50% anthesis; 6=first seed ripe; 7=50% seed ripe; 8=seed mature; 9=complete dormancy

* Data is an average from these years
13

Fort Pierre, SD Trial Location

The soils at this site are fertile clay with low permeability. 

Infiltration is less than 0.2 inch/hour. Three consecutive 

years (1988, 1989, and 1990) of significantly lower than 

normal rainfall greatly reduced the annual and 5-year 

average biomass yields. Both species performed better 

than expected on this site.

Garden produced more biomass yield than Goldstrike 

every year except 1988. Five-year average biomass 

yields were 1,933 lb/ac for Garden, and 1,497 lb/ac for 

Goldstrike. Average stand index densities were high at 

27 for Goldstrike, and 20 for Garden. Phenology was the 

same at 50 percent anthesis in early September.

Each prairie sandreed variety produced 5-year average 

biomass yields of approximately 2,500 lb/ac which was 

good given the low rainfall and clay soils. Average stand 

index densities were less than 5. Phenology was the 

same at 50 percent anthesis in early September. Prairie 

sandreed had biomass yields comparable to some of the 

other tallgrass species. The site was inspected in 2010 and 

good stands of prairie sandreed still persisted.

Fort Pierre, SD (MLRA 63A, central South Dakota)

Average Annual Precipitation: 18.08 inches

Soils: Promise clay

Sand Bluestem Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 Avg Rank 1986-1987* Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (-7.3) (-4.77) (-5.74) (.87) (.79)

 Garden 249a 191a 1524a 3044a 4955a 1993 1 20 5

 Goldstrike 402a 136a 941a 2310a 3694b 1497 2 27 5

Prairie Sandreed Stand

 Variety Biomass1(lb/ac) Index2 Phenology3

(inches) 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 Avg Rank 1986-1987* Early Sept.

 Precip. deviation (-7.3) (-4.77) (-5.74) (.87) (.79)

 Bowman 1256a 1796a 3714a 3320a 3212a 2660 1 4 5

 Goshen 844a 1006a 3166a 3508a 3927a 2490 2 2 5

Statistical Analyses: Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test, means with same letter are not significantly different (P≤.05) 1

Biomass: flail-type forage harvester, 2’ x 10’ strip in each plot clipped to a 2-inch stubble height 2

Stand Index: Estimate of plant density in 10 (1.0 sq ft) quadrats per plot. Full frame=40 3

Phenology (1990): 1=vegetative; 2=jointing; 3=first emergence of inflorescence; 4=first anthesis,10 culms or more;

 5=50% anthesis; 6=first seed ripe; 7=50% seed ripe; 8=seed mature; 9=complete dormancy

* Data is an average from these years
Results and Discussion

Sand bluestem and prairie sandreed are special use grass species. They are native, warm-season tallgrass 

species that are planted primarily on sandy sites with a mixture of other species for various conservation 

purposes.

Garden and Goldstrike sand bluestem originate from 

Nebraska. These are the northernmost sources of 

sand bluestem available commercially. Both varieties 

performed fairly well in Minnesota, North Dakota, 

and South Dakota with good establishment and stand 

density indexes. Garden generally had higher biomass 

yields and was more persistent. On some sites, it 

produced more than 7,500 lb/ac of annual biomass. 

Both varieties (Nebraska origins) were late maturing 

and would unlikely produce ripe seed at the more 

northern locations. Winter hardiness does not seem to 

be a problem as there were no signs of winter injury.

The Bismarck Plant Materials Center is developing a 

more northern release of sand bluestem. A collection 

of native plants has been assembled in a spaced-plant 

nursery and evaluated. A composite selection from 10 

sources within the three-state area was developed in 

2010. Plans are for a release in the next five years.

Performance of the Goshen and Bowman prairie 

sandreed were comparable. There appeared to be little 

difference between the two varieties. Annual biomass 

yields were over 8,000 lb/ac on some sites. Index 

densities are lower than many other species because of the rhizomatous habit and the more open sod. Goshen 

has a more southern origin, and is slightly later in maturity. Bowman has performed better than Goshen in 

trials in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Prairie sandreed performed surprisingly well on the clay site at the 

Fort Pierre location. The species is somewhat slower to establish than other warm-season species, and has 

problems with stem and leaf rust in higher rainfall regions (Sedivec 2001).

Variety Recommendations for North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota

Variety/Species Origin

Average Number of 

Days to Ripe Seed 

after July 15

Where Adapted

Garden sand bluestem west central Nebraska 95 ND, SD, MN

Goldstrike sand bluestem synthetic, Nebraska, Oklahoma 100 SD, southern MN

Bowman prairie sandreed southwest North Dakota 90 ND, SD

Goshen prairie sandreed southeast Wyoming 95 ND, SD

Koch prairie sandreed PI-477007 from central Michigan 105 MN

14
Key Establishment and Management Considerations

• Soils/Adaptation: Sand bluestem and prairie sandreed occur naturally on sandy soils. Performance 

testing has shown that they can perform well on a diversity of sites, especially under droughty 

conditions. Prairie sandreed is also found on shale sites, and performed well on a clay site.

• Seeding: Sand bluestem has approximately 113,000 seeds/lb, and prairie sandreed has approximately 

275,000 seeds/lb. Sand bluestem has dense yellow hairs on the seed head, and prairie sandreed has 

a ring of silky white hairs at the base of each seed. Seed of both species will flow better in a drill 

if debearded. Seed that is not debearded will have to be planted through the chaffy seed box of a 

grass drill. Seeding rates generally increase with higher precipitation from west to east. The NRCS 

recommended rates for western North Dakota are 9.5 Pure Live Seed (PLS) lb/ac for sand bluestem 

(25 seeds/ft2), and 4 PLS lb/ac for prairie sandreed (25 seeds/ft2). Broadcast seeding rates are generally 

higher than recommended drilled seeding rates. Late spring seeding is recommended. A firm seedbed 

is essential for a shallow seeding depth (1⁄4-1⁄2 inch). Seed may be planted slightly deeper in sandy soil 

(USDA NRCS 2003).

• Weed Control: Abundant broadleaf weeds and annual grasses need to be controlled in new seedings by 

mowing and/or herbicide application. Mowing is generally less effective in controlling annual grasses.

• Fertilization: Biomass yield, quality and seed production can be improved with fertilization if nitrogen 

or other nutrients are limiting. A soil test is recommended.

• Grazing/Haying/Mowing: Sand bluestem will provide good grazing from early summer to early fall. 

With proper grazing management, sand bluestem can withstand substantial grazing, but close grazing 

can decrease the stand. A stubble height of 6 inches is recommended to ensure stand longevity. Sand 

bluestem should be established in a native plant mixture. The establishment of sand bluestem would 

not be recommended for use as hayland in a forage system. Prairie sandreed has low palatability during 

the growing season and therefore is not a preferred pasture species. However, once exposed to a killing 

frost, lignin is reduced and palatability improves. Close grazing will decrease the plant populations. 

A stubble height of 4 inches is recommended to maintain a stand. Prairie sandreed should be planted 

with a native plant mixture. The use of prairie sandreed in a hayland forage system is not recommended 

(USDA 2009).

• Burning: Both species will benefit from burning of plant residue prior to initiation of spring growth, 

especially for seed production. Benefits include low impact residue removal, weed control, more 

uniform growth initiation and seed ripening, improved nutrient cycling, and improved vigor. Seed 

producers generally burn residue annually to increase yields.

• Seed Harvest: Seed shattering may occur shortly after first seed ripe for both species. Sand bluestem 

is ready to harvest earlier than prairie sandreed, but harvest dates depend on the days to maturity of 

the variety being grown. Sand bluestem threshes fairly easily, and settings are similar to big bluestem. 

Conventional combines can be used with proper setting adjustments, screen sizes, and reduced air flow. 

The awns or fuzz on the seed may cause problems with seed flowing through the combine. Prairie 

sandreed is usually harvested as late in the season as possible before seed shattering. This allows it to 

dry down and be combined directly without swathing. Stems and leaves are high in lignin and tend to 

wrap on harvesting equipment. The light, fuzzy seed adheres to any sticky surface. After harvest, seed of 

both species is subject to heating, and moisture levels may require drying. Air drying is recommended as 

excessive heat may damage the seed. Fields should be as weed-free as possible prior to harvest to aid in 

the seed cleaning process.

15
16

Prairie sandreed varieties differ in size and phenology

A prescribed burn is an important management tool
References

Barkworth, M.E., L.K. Anderton, K.M. Capels, S. Long, and M.B. Piep. 2007. Manual of grasses for North 

America. Intermountain Herbarium and Utah State University Press, Logan, UT. 

Jacobson, E.T., D.A. Tober, R.J. Haas, and D.C. Darris. 1986. The performance of selected cultivars of 

warm-season grasses in the northern prairie and plains states. p. 215-221. In G.K. Clambey and R.H. Pemble 

(ed.) Proc. North Am. Prairie Conf., 9th, Moorhead, MN. 29 July-1 Aug. 1984 Tri-College Univ. Cent. for 

Environ. Studies, North Dakota State Univ., Fargo.

Sedivec, K., D. Tober, J. Berdahl. 2001. Grass varieties for North Dakota. NDSU Extension Service, 

Fargo, ND. 20p.

USDA NRCS. 2003. Five keys to successful grass seeding. Plant Materials Center, Bismarck, ND. 6p.

USDA NRCS. 2011. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 24 March 2011). National Plant Data 

Center, Baton Rouge, LA 70874-4490 USA.

USDA NRCS Plant Materials Center. 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986/1987, 1988/1989, 1990/1991, 1992/1993. 

Technical report, part 1, grasses, forbs, and legumes, Bismarck, ND.

USDA NRCS and NDSU. 2009. Grasses for the Northern Plains; Growth patterns, forage characteristics, and 

wildlife values. Volume II – warm-season. Pub. R-1390. Fargo, ND. 66p. 

USDA SCS. 1994. Grass varieties in the United States. Agric. Handbook No. 170. Washington, D.C. 296p.

17

Prairie sandreed seed head 

opens as it matures

Leaf rust on prairie sandreed

Sand bluestem seed head 

has dense, yellow hairs 
Sand bluestem

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June 2011