Cool season grasses in Nebraska are those that thrive in the cooler temperatures of spring and fall. They are typically green and actively growing during these seasons, but may go dormant or turn brown during the hot summer months. These grasses are commonly used in pastures and lawns throughout the state.
In pastures, common cool season grasses include bromegrass, orchardgrass, and western wheatgrass. Bromegrass is a popular choice for its high forage yield and ability to tolerate a variety of soil conditions. Orchardgrass is known for its early spring growth and palatability for livestock. Western wheatgrass is a native grass that is well adapted to the region and provides good forage for grazing animals.
In lawns, cool season grasses are also preferred for their ability to withstand the colder temperatures of Nebraska. Kentucky bluegrass is a common choice for lawns due to its dense, attractive growth and ability to self-repair. Tall fescue is another popular option, with several varieties available, each with different characteristics such as drought tolerance or shade tolerance. Creeping red fescue and Chewings fescue are often used in shady areas, as they can tolerate lower light conditions.
Rye grasses are also used in Nebraska as cool season grasses, but they are typically annual grasses. They are often overseeded in lawns or pastures to provide temporary green cover during the cooler months. These annual grasses can be quick to establish and provide a vibrant green color during the winter, but they will die off as temperatures rise in the summer.
Personal experience has taught me that selecting the right cool season grass for your specific needs is important. Factors such as soil type, sunlight exposure, and intended use (pasture or lawn) should be considered when choosing which grasses to plant. It is also important to properly prepare the soil and provide adequate watering and maintenance to ensure the success of the grasses.
Cool season grasses in Nebraska include a variety of options such as bromegrass, orchardgrass, western wheatgrass, Kentucky bluegrass, tall fescue, creeping red fescue, Chewings fescue, and rye grasses. These grasses are well adapted to the cooler temperatures of the region and can provide attractive, functional lawns and pastures when properly selected and maintained.
