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Hale Habitat & Seed

Switchgrass (Cave-in-Rock)

Switchgrass (Cave-in-Rock)

Regular price $44.99 USD
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Cave-in-Rock Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a warm-season, perennial native grass widely used for erosion control, biofuel production, and wildlife habitat. It provides excellent cover for birds and small mammals, as well as nesting sites for ground-nesting birds like quail and pheasants. Its deep root system also improves soil health and water infiltration.

Summary of Wildlife Benefits

  • Provides dense cover for nesting birds, small mammals, and fawns.

  • Seeds are a food source for birds like quail, pheasants, and sparrows.

  • Improves soil health and reduces erosion, benefiting overall ecosystem stability.

Cave-in-Rock Switchgrass is a hardy, low-maintenance native grass that enhances wildlife habitat and supports conservation efforts.

Key Characteristics of Cave-in-Rock Switchgrass

  • Planting Time:

    • Late spring to early summer (May to June) when soil temperatures reach 60°F or higher.

  • Planting Depth:

    • ¼ to ½ inch for optimal germination and establishment.

  • Planting Rates:

    • Broadcast: 8-10 lbs of pure live seed (PLS) per acre.

    • Drilling: 5-7 lbs of PLS per acre.

  • Days to Maturity:

    • Establishes in 1-2 years, reaching full maturity by the third growing season.

  • Height at Maturity:

    • 3-6 feet tall, depending on soil and growing conditions.

  • Drought Tolerance:

    • High; deep root system allows it to thrive in dry conditions.

  • Saturated Soil Tolerance:

    • Moderate; can tolerate occasional flooding but not prolonged waterlogged conditions.

  • Shade Tolerance:

    • Low; prefers full sun for optimal growth.

Fertilization Guidelines

  • Nitrogen (N):

    • Apply 50-70 lbs per acre at planting, with additional applications of 30-50 lbs per acre in subsequent years if needed for biomass production.

  • Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K):

    • Apply based on soil test recommendations. Typical rates range from 20-40 lbs per acre for P and K.

  • pH Range:

    • Prefers a soil pH of 5.5-7.5 for optimal growth.

Herbicide Use

  • Switchgrass is slow to establish and may require weed control during the first 1-2 years.

  • Pre-Emergent Herbicides:

    • Use atrazine or imazapic (labeled for switchgrass) to control annual grasses and broadleaf weeds during establishment.

  • Post-Emergent Herbicides:

    • 2,4-D can be used for broadleaf weed control. Avoid herbicide use once switchgrass is established to protect wildlife habitat.

  • Caution: Follow label instructions and avoid herbicides that may harm non-target species.

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H
Hero#1
It looks like what I've ordered. But I won't be planting it till spring

It's what I was looking for