Winter Perennial Grasses
Cocksfoot – Cover Crops
Cocksfoot is a tufted, perennial grass that is best adapted to cool-season production. Due to the abundance of leaves produced, it does not lose much quality in winter or when it becomes reproductive. It grows strongly during spring and autumn, with poor growth during winter and limited summer growth (not as strong as Tall Fescue).
Perennial Ryegrass
Perennial ryegrass is a grass that has many uses but probably does not get the credit it should. It is very quick to germinate and is capable of going from scattered seed to mow-able lawn in about 21 days. Perennial ryegrass is considered a nurse grass because it is often included in grass seed blends mainly for its ability to germinate quickly and provide shade and protection.
Tall Fescue – Cover Crops
Tall Fescue is a tufted, perennial grass that is best adapted to cool-season production. It grows strongly during spring and autumn, with poor growth during winter (even though it stays green) and limited growth in summer. It can spread with small underground roots called rhizomes. Leaves have characteristic ridges on the upper side.