Orchardgrass is known for its ability to regrow even after heavy grazing or mowing. This is one of the reasons why it is such a popular choice for pastures and lawns.
One of the key characteristics of orchardgrass is its early growth in the spring. As the weather warms up and the days get longer, orchardgrass quickly starts to green up and produce new growth. This early growth allows it to take advantage of the available sunlight and establish itself before other grasses have a chance to grow.
But what sets orchardgrass apart from other grasses is its ability to regrow even after being grazed or mowed. This is due to its underground rhizomes, which are specialized stems that grow horizontally underground. These rhizomes allow the grass to spread and form new shoots, even if the above-ground portion of the plant is removed.
When orchardgrass is grazed or mowed, the above-ground portion of the plant is indeed removed. However, the rhizomes remain intact underground, and they will continue to produce new shoots and regrow the plant. This regrowth can happen relatively quickly, especially if the growing conditions are favorable.
In my personal experience, I have witnessed orchardgrass regrowing after being grazed by horses. Even when the grass was grazed down to a few inches above the ground, it was able to bounce back and regrow within a few weeks. This resilience makes it an excellent choice for areas that experience heavy grazing or frequent mowing.
It’s important to note that the regrowth of orchardgrass may not be as vigorous or rapid if the plant is severely damaged or if growing conditions are not optimal. Factors such as drought, poor soil quality, or excessive shade can affect the ability of orchardgrass to regrow. However, under normal conditions and with proper care, orchardgrass is known for its regenerative abilities.
Orchardgrass is a resilient grass that can regrow even after heavy grazing or mowing. Its underground rhizomes allow it to produce new shoots and regrow the plant, making it well-suited for areas that experience these types of disturbances. While the regrowth may vary depending on the extent of damage and growing conditions, orchardgrass is generally known for its ability to bounce back and thrive.
