Thurber’s Needlegrass: A Versatile Native Grass with Many Benefits
Thurber’s needlegrass is a remarkable native grass that offers a wide range of benefits for both livestock and wildlife. It’s drought tolerant, cold hardy, and provides excellent grazing for cattle, horses, elk, deer, and antelope.
What is Thurber’s Needlegrass?
Thurber’s needlegrass is a cool-season bunchgrass perennial that is native to the western United States. It has narrow rolled leaves that can grow up to 10 inches tall and a purple flower plume that is about 4 inches long. The seed of the plant is short but sharp, with a long awn.
Benefits of Thurber’s Needlegrass
Thurber’s needlegrass has many benefits, including:
- Grazing: Thurber’s needlegrass is a highly palatable grass for livestock. It starts growing early in spring and goes dormant in summer, but it starts growing again in autumn given sufficient rainfall. This makes it a valuable source of forage throughout the year.
- Wildlife forage: Thurber’s needlegrass is also a preferred forage for wildlife, especially elk, deer, and antelope. It is a good source of nutrients and energy for these animals.
- Erosion control: Thurber’s needlegrass has a dense root system that helps to hold the soil in place. This makes it an effective plant for erosion control, especially in areas that are prone to wind and water erosion.
How to Grow Thurber’s Needlegrass
Thurber’s needlegrass is easy to grow and care for. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Once established, it is relatively drought tolerant and requires minimal watering.
To plant Thurber’s needlegrass, simply scatter the seeds on the soil surface and lightly rake them in. The seeds will germinate in 7-14 days. Water the seedlings regularly until they are established, and then water them only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Tips for Growing Thurber’s Needlegrass
Here are a few tips for growing Thurber’s needlegrass successfully:
- Plant the seeds in well-drained soil.
- Give the plants full sun.
- Water the seedlings regularly until they are established.
- Water the plants only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilize the plants once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Control weeds by mowing or hand-pulling.
Conclusion
Thurber’s needlegrass is a valuable native grass that offers a wide range of benefits. It is a good choice for grazing, wildlife forage, and erosion control. With its easy-care nature, Thurber’s needlegrass is a great option for both home gardeners and ranchers.
