Mountain Meadow Improvement through Seeding

Abstract

Three mechanical methods were evaluated for control of the meadow weeds - sedge, cheatgrass, and poverty weed. Weed control and seedling stands were best on a summer fallow. Seeding in furrows aided seedling survival. A summer fallow-furrow technique was the weed control and seeding method used to evaluate grass and forb adaptability. Acceptable stands were more difficult to obtain in the cheatgrass-poverty weed type than in the sedge type. Seedling stands of Luna pubescent and Amur intermediate wheatgrasses were similar and were superior to those of Regar bromegrass, Alta tall fescue, and Primar slender wheatgrass. Production of pubescent wheatgrass was equal to or superior to that of intermediate wheatgrass. Bromegrass and fescue were not as productive as the introduced wheatgrasses. Native slender wheatgrass was as productive as the introduced wheatgrasses in a wet year but not in a dry year. Alfalfa and sainfoin stands averaged about one plant/3 ft of row. Herbage of these forbs was similar in quantity and quality to that in good sage grouse habitat.