This table is not intended as a variety recommendation guide due to a lack of forage variety testing in Arkansas since 1993. Back To Top Planting Orchardgrass should be planted between either September 1 and October 15 or March 1 and April 1. Plant 12 pounds of seed per acre in pure stands or 6 to 8 pounds with clover or other legumes. If orchardgrass is broadcast or if the seedbed is poor, add 2 to 4 extra pounds per acre. Cultipack after seeding.
Proper planting is especially helpful in protecting young winter sensitive orchardgrass seedlings.
In spite of this weakness, attempting to maintain 25 to 50 percent mixtures of orchardgrass with endophyte infected tall fescue is a good idea. Rates of 300 pounds per acre are common when a soil test report is not available. The most profitable rate of nitrogen fertilizer for pastures is probably about 100 to 120 pounds per acre annually. Fifty to 60 pounds per acre after each hay cutting gives good yields. Total nitrogen applied for the year depends on weather, environmental considerations and on the yield desired.