There are likely several dozen plant species that are being used as forage crops for hay, silage or pasture in Ontario. In this overview, I would like to mention a few alternative forage crops which I feel have excellent potential for increased use in the province.
Perennial ryegrass produces well under moderate temperatures and requires an abundance of moisture.
Thus, producers with the potential for irrigating pastures may be especially interested in this species. However, perennial ryegrass is susceptible to winter-kill and will not persist in some areas of Ontario. Variety selection is difficult since comprehensive performance testing is not done. Using turf varieties should allow perennial ryegrass to be grown across western Ontario, and in much of central and eastern Ontario. Areas with prolonged ice cover or extreme cold without sufficient snow cover will not support perennial ryegrass.