Shiloh II Orchard Grass Seed
Shiloh II Orchard Grass is a high-performing cool-season perennial forage grass developed for livestock producers who demand dependable yields, exceptional feed quality, and long-term stand persistence. Known for its rapid establishment and vigorous spring growth, Shiloh II is an excellent choice for hay fields, grazing systems, silage production, and mixed forage plantings.
This improved orchardgrass variety produces abundant, leafy growth with excellent palatability, making it highly desirable for cattle, horses, sheep, goats, and other grazing animals. Its ability to perform well alongside legumes such as alfalfa and clovers makes it a valuable component of balanced forage programs.
Advantages of Shiloh II Orchard Grass
| Benefit |
Description |
| High-Quality Forage |
Produces nutritious, palatable feed for livestock. |
| Strong Seasonal Growth |
Delivers excellent spring production and consistent regrowth. |
| Fast Establishment |
Germinates quickly and develops into a productive stand. |
| Excellent Hay Variety |
Provides dense, leafy forage suitable for premium hay production. |
| Compatible with Legumes |
Mixes well with clovers and alfalfa for enhanced forage value. |
| Winter Survivability |
Maintains stand integrity through cold weather conditions. |
| Adaptable |
Performs across a wide range of climates and soil types. |
Product Specifications
| Characteristic |
Details |
| Species |
Orchard Grass (Dactylis glomerata) |
| Growth Type |
Cool-Season Perennial |
| Plant Habit |
Upright Bunchgrass |
| Primary Uses |
Hay, Pasture, Silage, Grazing |
| Sun Requirement |
Full Sun to Partial Shade |
| Drought Tolerance |
Moderate |
| Winter Hardiness |
Excellent |
| Soil Preference |
Fertile, Well-Drained Soils |
Common Applications
Shiloh II Orchard Grass is widely used for:
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Hay production
-
Rotational grazing systems
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Horse pastures
-
Dairy and beef cattle operations
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Sheep and goat forage programs
-
Grass-legume forage blends
-
Conservation and soil stabilization projects
Its productive growth habit helps provide a reliable forage supply throughout the growing season while maintaining excellent feed quality.
Planting Recommendations
| Planting Factor |
Recommendation |
| Seeding Rate (Pure Stand) |
10–15 lbs. per acre |
| Seeding Depth |
1/4 to 1/2 inch |
| Ideal Planting Seasons |
Early Spring or Late Summer/Fall |
| Germination Time |
Approximately 7–14 Days |
| Preferred Soil pH |
6.0–7.0 |
For best results, seed into a firm, weed-free seedbed and maintain adequate moisture during establishment. Proper fertility and grazing management will help maximize productivity and stand longevity.
Management Guidelines
-
Harvest hay before seed heads fully emerge to maximize forage quality.
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Maintain adequate fertility based on soil test recommendations.
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Avoid excessive grazing pressure to encourage stand persistence.
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Leave sufficient stubble height after cutting or grazing to promote healthy regrowth.
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Pair with legumes to improve overall forage nutrition and seasonal production.
Why Choose Shiloh II Orchard Grass?
Shiloh II Orchard Grass offers the combination of forage quality, productivity, and durability that livestock producers depend on. Its excellent feed value, strong seasonal performance, and adaptability make it a reliable option for pastures, hay fields, and forage mixtures. Whether your goal is premium hay production or productive grazing acreage, Shiloh II delivers dependable results year after year.
