In Oklahoma, annual ryegrass is used primarily during the spring in the northern half of the state, but can be productive during the fall in the southern half of the state if adequate moisture is available.  Under mild temperatures, ample moisture, and adequate N fertilization, annual ryegrass can produce high yields of palatable, high quality forage. Dry matter production from annual ryegrass yield is related directly to fertility.  Annual ryegrass requires approximately 60 pounds of actual N for each ton of forage produced.  Yields typically range from around 2 tons of forage per acre in northern Oklahoma and commonly produce up to 4 tons per acre in southern Oklahoma.  Based on the yield potential and desired production, annual ryegrass may require up to 200 pounds of N per acre to maximize production. Forage quality of annual ryegrass depends almost entirely on stage of maturity.  Annual ryegrass is usually later maturing than other winter annual forages used for winter grazing, such as winter wheat and cereal rye.  Thus, it has the highest forage quality later in the spring when other annual, cool-season grasses are well into their reproductive cycle.  Consequently, its greatest value is to extend the grazing season into late spring.

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