Perennial rye grass (Lolium perenne)

Local name: Perennial rye grass

Perennial rye grass is important  in forage/livestock systems.  High  palatability  and  digestibility   make this  species  highly  valued  for  dairy  and  sheep forage systems. As a result, it is the preferred as forage grass in temperate regions of the world. The perennial rye grass is one of the finest grasses which grow well in rich alluvial soil in a cooler climate. It does not seem to grow  in the plains under Indian climatic  conditions.  In the Hilly  areas it  seems to thrive well.

Nutritive value

Perennial  rye  grass  is  noted  for  high  levels  of quality, palatability, digestible energy, protein and minerals. Rye grass accumulates high levels of total usable carbohydrates in spring and fall. Composition, however, depends largely on maturity, stage at harvest and on fertility. It contains 10.4% crude protein and 50-60% total digestible nutrients. Calcium and phosphorus content is 0.57 and 0.27%, respectively.