Variety traits

Plant height — orchardgrass

Dactylis glomerata L.

Orchardgrass height is a key morphological trait for productivity, measured as the distance from the soil to the tip of the panicle. For breeding varieties, the typical range is 60–120 cm, with tetraploid forms generally being taller than diploid ones.

In the reference 29 varieties crop Cocksfoot, where this is mentioned in the description.

For orchardgrass, plant height is defined as the distance from the soil surface to the tip of the panicle. Depending on varietal characteristics and growing conditions, values range from 25–35 cm to 150 cm; however, for most cultivated crops, the 60–120 cm range is considered standard.

This trait directly influences the green mass yield structure, where taller forms provide a higher dry matter output. There is a correlation between ploidy level and growth: tetraploid forms of orchardgrass typically exhibit greater height compared to diploid ones.

Height is closely correlated with development phases and the forage quality of the crop. As the plants mature, the stems become coarser, which reduces nutritional value; therefore, to obtain high-quality hay or haylage, harvesting is recommended before the plants reach maximum height, focusing on the heading stage.

General information about the subject — on the page Plant height.

Sources8

Varieties of Cocksfoot mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.