Alkali Sacaton

Alkali Sacaton is a vigorous, coarse, perennial native bunchgrass that occurs throughout the western and southwestern part of the United States. This warm-season grass is commonly found on moist, saline or alkaline soils especially in low lying or flooded areas and valleys. Normally, the stands of pure Alkali Sacaton have a distinctive tufted or bunchy appearance. Its major distribution is in the tall-grass prairie of the Central States and along the eastern edge of the Great Plains. 

Alkali Sacaton can reach heights of 2- 4 feet tall under favorable soil and moisture conditions. Leaf blades are about 2-18 inches long and approximately 1/4 inch wide. The leaves may be hairy near the base, and the sheaths are usually hairy. The flowering stalks are stout, coarse, and solid; the stalks of most other grasses are hollow. The extensive root system penetrates deeply. The grass grows well on most soil types but is most abundant on moist, well-drained soils. 

The abundant, leafy forage is palatable to all classes of livestock when it is green and vegetative. We have had protein readings as high as 17%. However, as it matures palatability is drastically reduced. As standing forage for winter grazing Alkali Sacaton provides very poor quality forage. 

Seedlings should be made on a well-prepared, firm seedbed free from weeds. Seeding rates of 1 – 2 pure live seed pounds per acre have given excellent results. Full protection during the period of establishment is necessary; weeds should be mowed to lessen the competition for water, sun, and nutrients.

General Characteristics