Collar of annual ryegrass
Overall plant structure of annual ryegrass |
Qualities
Annual ryegrass is a cool-season grass well adapted to sunny
conditions and moderate temperatures. Also known as Italian
ryegrass or wintergrass, it is often sown at high rates
to overseed warm-season turfgrasses for fall, winter,
and early spring color or to provide temporary cover
for soil stabilization. It is not otherwise used for
turf. Annual ryegrass dies in the late spring to early
summer. It often turns yellow and dies before warm-season
grasses come out of dormancy.
Identifying tips
A coarse, shiny lime-green grass. Leaves
are rolled in the bud and long, narrow claw-like auricles
are present. Annual ryegrass is a bunchgrass with an upright
growth habit and shallow roots.
Maintenance
Moderate to high maintenance. Annual ryegrass
has low tolerance for drought, shade, and extreme high and
low temperatures. It is only moderately wear resistant.
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