Eastern Gamagrass (Tripsacum dactalyodies)

Plant Characteristics: Perennial bunchgrass with short rhizomes and wide leaves with rough edges.

Establishment: Eastern gamagrass can be grown in the northern part of the state. Requires soils with high moisture. Seed establishment is difficult due to high seed dormancy. Planting usually occurs from April to May at seeding rate of 8 lb/ac.

Fertilization: Adapted to loamy clay and sandy-loam soils with a pH ranging form 6 to 7.5. Gamagrass has a high fertility requirement, especially nitrogen.

Grazing/Hay Management: Gamagrass could be used in pasture or hay production. Season production occurs from June to August with yields ranging from 5 to 10 tons/ac. Rotational stocking is recommended.

Forage Quality: Very high nutritive qualities.

Varieties/Cultivars: Pete, Iuka, Eastern (PMK 24), Highlander (USDA/MSU release).