The Origins of Dwarf Perennial Rye Grass

The origins of Dwarf Perennial Rye Grass – The first turf-type dwarf perennial rye grasses were released in the USA in the early 1960s. They quickly became the most widely adopted turf grass in much of Northern America. Perennial rye grass has been used for animal forage for the past 300 years. It was first launched as a turf grass in 1961 but it took a lot of improvement from agronomists before it became the turf grass we know today.

The old types of Perennial Ryegrass are nothing like modern turf

It started out as animal forage but when it was first tested for use in turf grass it had very poor mowing quality, grew as a very thin and patchy turf and had poor tolerance to heat and cold. So, some of the least desired attributes for any turf grass blend. You would wonder why they persevered.

Features of Dwarf Perennial Rye Grass

Dwarf perennial rye grass is best adapted to mild temperate climates. It is a “bunch” grass with a limited ability to spread.

As it is very dark in colour, it makes a very attractive addition to any turf mix.

With the improvements and developments over time rye grass have become far more dominant. Particularly, as rye enjoys rapid germination and it’s quick to establish even in cold conditions.

It has a much finer leaf, denser sward and cleaner, easier cut than its pasture counterpart.

It has also retained some of the attributes which made it such a great pasture and forage turf . Versatility, excellent wear resistance and its dense and compact growth.

Why Dwarf Perennial Rye Grass is great for lawns

We include dwarf perennial rye grass in Jubilee Turf.

Including rye provides excellent durability.

The variety of rye we use will also tolerate close mowing meaning it can be used for a wider range of grass surface requirements.