Best View Farms

Also known as Cocksfoot Grass, Orchardgrass (so-called because if it tolerates moderate shade), is a common grass, native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa but has been naturalized into North America, becoming an invasive species in some areas. It is widely used as a hay grass and for pastures because of its high yields and sugar content, sweeter than most other temperate grasses.

 

Orchardgrass is a bunch-type, tall-growing, cool-season perennial.  It was first introduced in the United States from Europe before 1760.

 

Orchardgrass is typically a western U.S. grown grass hay forage with maintenance (RFV) levels of energy requirements.  This hay forage is highly sought after by bovine, equine, and alpaca/llama industry uses but will vary nutritionally from 1st and 2nd cuttings due to no reproductive seed heads in second cuttings.

 

Orchardgrass hay also is a low non-structured carbohydrate with normal sugar levels.  Orchardgrass, especially western-grown, is considered an excellent vitamin and mineral supplement for cattle, horses, and other animal (even cat) diets.