Sowing & Growing: Crested Hairgrass

Crested hairgrass (Koeleria macrantha) is a compact and tufted perennial, which suits dry, calcareous grassland areas, owing to its useful drought tolerance. It is slow growing and may be pushed out by more competitive grass species on ‘better’ soils.

When to sow: Crested hairgrass can be sown at any time of the year.

Sowing Rates: 5 g/m2 - 20kg per acre - 50kg per ha, normally sown as part of a mixture.

Preparation: A fine but firm seedbed should be created, care should be taken to remove any weeds from the area. Once sown the area should be lightly raked over to cover the seed and well consolidated with a roller or similar seed to encourage maximum seed to soil contact and conserve moisture. Seedbeds should not be left unconsolidated and if you leave a footprint on a newly sown area it should be rolled again.

Sowing: The seed should be broadcast or drilled no deeper than 10mm. Sowing too deeply can reduce the germination and establishment dramatically

Management: Crested hairgrass requires good grassland management to maintain its presence in a mixed sward, particularly on better soils. Neglect, or even regular late hay cutting will allow taller grasses the opportunity to outgrow and to shade it out, similar to quaking grass.

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Date Posted: 15th February 2023