Crested Wheatgrass

Crested wheatgrass (Agropyron cristatum, Agropyron desertorum) is a highly valuable forage crop for dryland farming in Alberta’s Special Areas. It is well-suited to low-moisture environments due to its deep root system, early spring growth, and excellent drought tolerance.

It provides high-quality forage, helps prevent soil erosion, and remains a critical component of pastureland in semi-arid regions. Below is a detailed guide on its cultivation and management.

Seed Selection

Best Varieties for Alberta’s Special Areas:

  • Fairway
    • Shorter-growing variety with finer leaves.
    • Ideal for hay production and grazing, with good forage quality.
    • Establishes quickly and provides early-season growth.
  • Kirk
    • Improved drought tolerance and winter hardiness.
    • High seedling vigor for rapid establishment.
    • Recommended for grazing systems.
  • NewHy (Hybrid of Crested and Western Wheatgrass)
    • Better regrowth potential than traditional crested wheatgrass.
    • Suitable for both hay and grazing.
  • Nordan
    • Strongly drought-resistant and cold-hardy.
    • Produces high forage yields in low-rainfall areas.
    • Tolerant of saline soils, making it a good choice for marginal land.

Factors to Consider in Seed Selection:

  • Drought Tolerance: Varieties like Nordan and Kirk perform better in extreme drought.
  • Winter Hardiness: Ensures survival through cold Alberta winters.
  • Intended Use: Choose finer-leaved types like Fairway for hay, while robust varieties like Nordan are better for pasture.

Planting Guidelines

Site Preparation:

  • Weed Control: Crested wheatgrass establishes slowly compared to annuals, so proper weed control before seeding is essential.
  • Soil Testing: Ideal soil pH ranges from 6.0 to 8.0. Conduct a soil test to determine nutrient deficiencies.
  • Seedbed Preparation: Firm, well-packed seedbeds ensure good seed-to-soil contact and faster germination.

Seeding Time:

  • Spring Seeding: Best results are achieved when planted in early spring (late April to mid-May) when soil moisture is available.
  • Fall Dormant Seeding: Can be planted in late fall (October to November) before the ground freezes, allowing early spring germination.

Seeding Rate:

  • Pure Stand: 4–6 lbs/acre drilled, 6–8 lbs/acre broadcast.
  • Mixture with Legumes (e.g., alfalfa): 2–4 lbs/acre crested wheatgrass mixed with 3–5 lbs/acre alfalfa.

Seeding Depth:

  • Plant at ¼ to ½ inch depth. Deeper planting reduces germination success.

Fertilization and Soil Management

Nutrient Requirements:

  • Nitrogen (N):
    • Apply 20–40 lbs/acre in establishment year to encourage strong root development.
    • Maintain 40–60 lbs/acre annually for hay fields or heavily grazed pastures.
  • Phosphorus (P):
    • Essential for root growth and establishment. Apply 15–30 lbs/acre as needed.
  • Potassium (K):
    • Apply 30–50 lbs/acre if soil tests show deficiency.
  • Sulfur (S):
    • 10–15 lbs/acre recommended in sandy or low-organic matter soils.

Lime Application:

  • Required only if soil pH falls below 5.8.

Fertilizer Timing:

  • Pre-Plant Application: Apply phosphorus and potassium before seeding and incorporate into the soil.
  • Top-Dressing: Apply nitrogen in early spring or after grazing/cutting to encourage regrowth.

Growing and Management Practices

Weed and Pest Control:

  • Pre-Plant: Use herbicides like glyphosate to eliminate broadleaf weeds.
  • Post-Emergence:
    • 2,4-D can be used after establishment to control broadleaf weeds.
    • Mowing can reduce weed competition in the first year.
  • Insect Control:
    • Grasshoppers: Can be a problem in dry years; monitor populations and apply insecticides if needed.

Grazing and Cutting Management:

  • First Year: Avoid grazing to allow plants to establish strong root systems.
  • Grazing Rotation:
    • Begin grazing in early spring when plants reach 6–8 inches.
    • Maintain a minimum stubble height of 3 inches to ensure regrowth.
    • Rest pastures for 30–40 days between grazing cycles.
  • Hay Cutting:
    • Cut at early heading stage for optimal quality and yield.
    • Leave a stubble height of 3–4 inches for regrowth.

Drought Management:

  • Crested wheatgrass can survive prolonged drought but goes dormant if moisture is lacking.
  • Avoid overgrazing during dry years to maintain stand longevity.

Harvesting and Storage

Hay Production:

  • Cutting Time: Early heading stage for best forage quality.
  • Moisture Content: Bale at 15–18% moisture to prevent spoilage.
  • Storage: Store in covered sheds or under tarps to prevent nutrient loss.

Silage Production:

  • Less common but possible. Harvest at 60% moisture and pack well to exclude air.

Resources and Support for Farmers

Government and Industry Support:

  • Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation (AFSC): Provides crop insurance and financial support for forage programs.
  • Western Forage Beef Group: Offers research on forage production and grazing management.
  • Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA): Provides technical resources and funding opportunities.

Extension Services and Expertise:

  • Agricultural Fieldmen in Special Areas: Provide assistance with pasture management and forage establishment.
  • Alberta Ag-Info Centre: Offers guidance on forage crop selection, pest control, and agronomy.

Financial Assistance Programs:

  • On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF): Supports rotational grazing and forage enhancement.
  • Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP): Funds projects aimed at improving soil health and forage productivity.

Conclusion

Crested wheatgrass is one of the best options for forage in dryland farming due to its early-season growth, high drought tolerance, and ability to withstand grazing pressure. By selecting the right variety, following proper seeding and fertilization practices, and implementing sound grazing management, farmers can maximize the productivity and longevity of their stands.

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