There are times in farming, ranching and land management when an economical approach is the best approach. Limited budgets, timing, environmental conditions, availability of water and any number of other factors prevent an “ideal” outcome worthy of more expensive, premium products. Sometimes planting a less expensive product is better than planting nothing at all, and this is where our Economy Dryland Pasture Mix shines.
Economy Dryland Pasture Mix was designed for quick results on minimum water without breaking the bank. It is designed with affordable but effective species. It will establish on sites with 10″ or more annual precipitation but will persist better on site with 12-13″ annual precipitation.
All species in this mix are proven varieties suitable to dry settings. This mix will tolerate moderate amounts of high pH and salt. Forerunner Triticale is drought tolerant small grain grass. It is a cross between Rye grain and Wheat. It has adopted the drought tolerant genetics of Rye grain and the forage quality of Wheat. It is facultative, meaning it can be planted spring or fall.
Economy Dryland Pasture Mix will produce the best results when broadcast planted in the fall. Sow from mid-Septemeber to early October for fall emergence. Sow anytime after October 15 (in most areas) for a winter-dormant planting and the mix will emerge in the spring. Because this mix contains grasses, grains and legumes we strongly recommend broadcast seeding.
| Species | % in mix | Scientific Name | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Forerunner Triticale | 35% | X triticosecale | One of the most drought tolerant small grain grasses (beardless) |
| Slender Wheatgrass | 15% | Elymus trachycaulus | Proven, versatile performer |
| Hulk Tall Wheagrass | 15% | Thinopyrum ponticum | Handles high pH and dense soils |
| Siberian Wheatgrass | 10% | Agropyron fragile | Very drought tolerant cool season grass |
| California Bromegrass | 7.5% | Intermediate Wheatgrass | A widely used and proven forage grass |
| Intermediate Wheatgrass | 7.5% | Thinopyrum intermedium | A proven dryland pasture grass |
| Ladak II Alfalfa | 5% | Medicago sativa | Excellent dryland variety |
| Baldwin Fall Barley | 5% | Hordeum vulgare | A beardless winter barley |
The graphic above should provide a good visual reference of proper seeding depth. Note: The roll/pack step is highly recommended (but not necessary) with the broadcast seeding method. We do NOT recommend you roll/pack after drilling unless you are absolutely certain your drill is set to the shallowest possible drill depth – no more than .25″. A drill depth set too deep will result in buried seeds, poor germination and poor establishment – or failure.
Left: Ideal soil prep and proper broadcast method seed depth. The seeds have good soil contact on an even seed bed.
Right: Large dirt clods result in poor soil contact and uneven establishment. To the best of your ability, prepare an even, disturbed seed bed. What is “correct” or “ideal” will vary with your circumstances. In a range situations or on rocky ground the soil in the left photo is unrealistic.
Pasture mixes &Correct Sowing Methods
Correct sowing method is crucial for the establishment of healthy pasture. Few things have so direct an effect on success – or failure. The following methods are recommended:
Broadcast + Roll (BEST): Broadcast seed on a prepared seed bed. In small plots this is easy done by hand. For medium plots, a fertilizer broadcaster works well. In large-scale seedings a tractor/truck/SUV mounter fertilizer spreader works well. After broadcasting, walking on the area works in small areas and accomplishes the same goal as a roller. In med-large scale seedings, compact the soil surface with a push-roller or a roller mounted to a vehicle or tractor. The goal of the roller is to “press” the seed into the soil surface, ensuring the best possible soil contact.
Broadcast (GOOD): Broadcast seed on a prepared seed bed. In small plots this is easy done by hand. For medium plots, a fertilizer broadcaster works well. In large-scale seedings a tractor/truck/SUV mounter fertilizer spreader works well. DO NOT attempt to bury the seed after broadcasting.
Drilling (GOOD, BUT MUST BE DONE CORRECTLY): There are countless brands and styles of drills. Each are set to their specific make and model – there is no “universal” setting. Set your drill to the desired seeding rate and lift disks to barely scratch the surface. DO NOT bury the seeds. One of the leading causes of establishment failure is sowing too deep.
Who is Great Basin Seed?
Great Basin Seed is a seed company that specializes in seed sales and consultation for home, ranch, farm, range and reclamation. We have been a leader in the seed industry since 1974.
Our History
We've been in the seed business since 1974.
What We Offer
We offer seed for home, farm, ranch, range and reclamation projects.
Meet the Gang
We have the best employees in the world! We are proud of the work they do, and trust them to serve you!
Right: Company founder Lloyd and his wife Paula Stevens in a wildflower seed production field circa 1977
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