Barley

Forage Barley is a cool season, annual grass that is two rowed and beardless bred for forage use. It is an excellent grass for hay or silage. On average it will produce 2.5 - 3 tons per acre with an average crude protein of 11-12%. Forage barley is taller and much leafier compared to traditional barley varieties. It is fast maturing, and should be cut approximately 65 to 70 days from the date of planting for optimal feed values. You could also cut at 70 to 75 days from the date of planting for optimal tonnage. Its fast growth habit makes it an ideal candidate for double cropping systems. It tolerates cool temperatures and should be planted early in the spring for summer grazing. You could also wait and plant just prior to fall, as the temperatures cool down, for winter grazing systems. It is fairly drought tolerant and has good tolerance to saline and alkali soils.