This factor is responsible for much of the low-quality seed available. Reed canarygrass seed yields will be increased by applying 100 to 125 pounds of nitrogen per acre. For seed production, apply nitrogen from December through January. The name ryegrass primarily applies to two species of the genus L. perenne . Italian ryegrass usually is considered to be an annual, but under some conditions it is assumed to be a biennial.
Perennial ryegrass is a short-lived perennial.
Seed supplies of ryegrass are usually a mixture or hybrid, or both, of the two species. Ryegrass is a palatable bunch grass that may be used as a winter annual and will make a quick top growth and heavy root development. It usually is effective when seeded in late summer or early fall as a winter cover crop and nurse crop for longer-living legumes and grasses. Ryegrass seldom is used in Missouri as a field crop because of its short-lived nature. It will grow on fairly wet soils, but does not withstand stagnant water.