ROUGH-STALKED MEADOW GRASS. 67 



green leaves. They root at the joints and their ends finally bend 

 upwards and produce normal leafy shoots, the development of which 

 is quite similar to that of the corresponding shoots of Kentucky 

 Blue Grass. All young shoots of Rough-stalked Meadow Grass are 

 distinctly flattened, whereas those of Kentucky Blue Grass are 

 round. The stems are from one to three feet high, leafy to above 

 the middle, and generally rough immediately below the panicle — 

 hence the name Rough-stalked Meadow Grass. The leaves are 

 numerous, generally dark green, with mostly rough sheaths and long 

 acute ligule. The panicle is similar to that of Kentuck)- Blue Grass, 

 but is generally more spreading and dark green. 



Geographical distribution: Rough-stalked Meadow Grass is 

 indigenous to the temperate regions of the Old World. It was 

 introduced into North America. 



Habitat: It grows naturally in rich and wet meadows, along 

 the borders of woods, roads and ditches, and in thickets, gardens and 

 cultivated fields, from sea level to high up in the mountains. 



Cultural conditions : Rough-stalked Meadow Grass is es- 

 pecially adapted to low-lying land where the soil is rich and the 

 moisture abundant. 



Climate: It cannot stand drought as well as can Kentucky 

 Blue Grass. This is partly due to the creeping shoots being over- 

 ground and more exposed than are the underground runners of 

 Kentucky Blue Grass. It recovers quickly after drought, however, 

 and can be grown on irrigated land under favourable conditions. 



Habits of growth: It is much easier to start than is Kentucky 

 Blue Grass. During the first year the plants produce creeping 

 shoots, which root at the joints and develop into upright branches. 

 The growth being rapid, the ground quickly becomes covered. The 

 second year the plants have reached full development and give the 

 highest yield. 



Agricultural value: Rough-stalked Meadow Grass has its 

 highest fodder value when in bloom and should be cut for hay at 

 that stage. On wet land, however, it is advisable to cut it earlier 

 because the stems easily rot at the base. It is a valuable addition 

 to hay mixtures cut once a year. When more than one crop is 

 required, it should be replaced by some other grass as its second 



