If you’re a Kansas landowner or farmer, knowing when to plant brome grass in Kansas is the first step to a successful stand. Getting the timing right is crucial for good germination and strong root development before the weather turns.
This cool-season perennial is a workhorse for pasture, hay, and erosion control across the state. Planting at the optimal time gives your grass the best chance to establish itself. Let’s look at the best seasons and methods to ensure your brome grass thrives.
When to Plant Brome Grass in Kansas
The optimal Kansas planting season for smooth brome grass centers around two primary windows: late summer to early fall and early spring. Fall is generally the preferred and most reliable time.
Why Fall Planting is Best
Planting in late summer or early fall offers several key advantages. The soil is warm, which promotes quick seed germination. Cooler air temperatures reduce stress on young seedlings. There’s also typically less competition from summer annual weeds.
Most importantly, fall planting allows the grass to develop a strong root system over the fall and following spring. This prepares it to survive the heat and drought of its first Kansas summer. Aim for a planting date between August 15th and September 15th in most of the state.
- Optimal Soil Temperature: Seed germinates best when soil temps are between 60-70°F.
- Moisture Availability: Fall often brings more reliable rainfall compared to late spring.
- Root Development: Seedlings focus energy on root growth rather than top growth.
Spring Planting as a Secondary Option
Spring planting can be successful, but it comes with more risk. You must plant very early, as soon as the ground is workable in late March to mid-April. The goal is to get the grass established before the onset of hot, dry summer weather.
Spring-planted brome has a shorter period to develop and may require more careful weed control and irrigation. If you miss the early window, it’s usually better to wait for fall rather than planting late in the spring.
Regional Considerations Within Kansas
Kansas’s climate varies from east to west, which shifts the ideal planting dates.
- Eastern Kansas: Target August 20 – September 10 for fall planting. Spring planting can begin in late March.
- Central Kansas: Aim for August 15 – September 5. Spring planting is riskier here due to quicker summer heat.
- Western Kansas: The shortest window. Shoot for August 10 – August 30 for fall. Spring planting is not generally recommended due to aridity.
Preparing for Planting
Good seedbed preparation is just as important as timing. Start by testing your soil pH. Brome grass prefers a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Amend your soil based on the test results to create the right environment.
A firm, weed-free seedbed is essential. You want good seed-to-soil contact. This can be achieved by light tillage followed by dragging or rolling to firm the surface. Remove existing vegetation or use a burndown herbicide if needed to reduce competition.
Choosing Your Seed
Select a certified seed variety adapted to Kansas, such as ‘Lincoln’ or ‘Manchar’ smooth brome. Check the seed tag for purity and germination rates. Using high-quality seed is an investment that pays off in stand longevity.
The Planting Process: Step-by-Step
- Final Seedbed Prep: Create a firm, smooth surface. The field should be free of large clods.
- Seeding Rate: Drill 8 to 12 pounds of pure live seed (PLS) per acre. For broadcast seeding, increase the rate to 12-15 lbs/acre.
- Seeding Depth: Plant seed shallow, at 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep. Brome seed is small and cannot emerge if planted to deep.
- Covering the Seed: If drilled, the opener will cover it. If broadcast, lightly drag the area to cover seed.
- Firming the Soil: Use a cultipacker or light roller to press the seed into the soil, ensuring moisture contact.
Care After Planting
Your job isn’t done once the seed is in the ground. Adequate moisture is critical for germination and early growth. While fall rains often help, be prepared for dry spells.
Avoid grazing or cutting the new stand in its first year. Allow it to focus all its energy on establishment. You can take a light hay cutting in the second year, but only after the grass has reached at least 10 inches in height.
- Weed Control: Scout for weed competition. Some broadleaf weeds can be controlled in established stands, but options in seedlings are limited.
- Fertilization: Apply phosphorus and potassium at planting if your soil test calls for it. Hold nitrogen until the stand is well established to avoid boosting weeds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with good timing, errors can hurt your stand. Planting too deep is the most common cause of failure. Always calibrate your drill and check depth in the field.
Planting into a weedy seedbed or using old, low-germination seed are other frequent pitfalls. Don’t rush planting into dust-dry soil either; wait for some moisture or plan for irrigation if possible.
FAQs: Planting Brome Grass in Kansas
Can I plant brome grass in October in Kansas?
Late October planting is generally to late for reliable establishment in most of Kansas. The seedlings won’t have enough time to develop winter hardiness. It’s better to wait until the next fall window.
What is the best fertilizer for new brome grass?
Base fertilizer on a soil test. At planting, focus on phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) if needed. Avoid high nitrogen at seeding, as it promotes weed growth. Apply nitrogen in the fall or spring after the stand is established.
How long does brome grass seed take to germinate?
With adequate moisture and warm soil (60-70°F), brome grass seed typically germinates in 7 to 14 days. Cooler soil temperatures will slow this process down considerably.
Can I mix brome with alfalfa?
Yes, brome grass is commonly seeded with alfalfa in Kansas for hay fields. The planting timing is similar for both. Manage the mix according to the alfalfa’s needs for cutting height and fertility.
By following these guidelines for the optimal Kansas planting season, you’ll give your brome grass the strongest possible start. Remember, patience in waiting for the right conditions and care in preparation make all the difference for a healthy, productive stand that will last for years.