That makes Canadian timothy seed unattractive for import. For common seed grown in 2000, Shmon sees prices of 40 to 42 cents per pound, and up to 60 cents per lb. for proprietary seed. Prices for common seed grown in 2001 will likely be 30 to 35 cents per lb., he said. A large European crop of perennial ryegrass is also keeping out imports of Canadian seed, said Jack Zimmer of Idaho-based Seed Specialists. Zimmer said orchardgrass may provide some short-term market opportunities.
Demand is strong for orchardgrass, and United States buyers are short on supply.
Shmon pointed to reed canary grass as a bright spot in the market. Poor yields have led to above-average prices. Birdsfoot trefoil markets are still slow. Last year, a large South American crop led to massive imports, said Zimmer. Those imports have now stopped.