There is no perfect forage species or cultivar for all site conditions, intended uses, and management levels. Each species and cultivar has a unique combination of characteristics. Matching the following tolerances and characteristics with your site, uses, and management goals will improve forage production. These characteristics, discussed in detail, define forage economic and environmental sustainability:

  • Soil tolerances, including soil moisture and tolerance to flooded conditions
  • Geophysical factors and climatic tolerances
  • Species suitability zones
  • Treading tolerances
  • Persistence
  • Ease of establishment