Varieties Available

KAW

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BIG BLUESTEM

(Andropogon gerardi)

 

Big Bluestem is a vigorous, tall, perennial, native bunchgrass with rhizomatous characteristics. It is widely adapted throughout most of the United States. Its major area of distribution is in the tall grass prairie in the Central States and the Eastern edge of the Great Plains. The grass grows well on most soil types but performs best on moist, fertile, loamy type soils.

 

 

Growth begins late in the spring and continues through the summer. Plants usually grow 3-6 feet tall with adequate moisture. The leaf blades are around 1/4 - 1/2 inch wide and approximately 12 inches long. The extensive root system penetrates deeply in to the soil, which contributes to its persistence and drought tolerance.

 

 

The forage provides excellent grazing and/or hay for livestock and provides adequate cover for wildlife populations. Big bluestem has great potential for erosion control and soil stabilization. It is best planted in range mixes for revegetation of rangeland or abandoned cultivated land. Seedings should be made on a well-prepared, firm seedbed free from weeds. A seeding rate of 6-8 pls pounds per acre in pure stands and 1-3 pls per acre in a range seed mixture.

General Characteristics

KAW

Kaw Big Bluestem is a late maturing, tall variety that was selected for its quality forage, seed production and improved disease resistance. Highly adapted throughout the Great Plains and eastward.

 

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