The Disadvantages of Using Switchgrass

Rate of Establishment

• While many varieties of prairie and lawn grasses, such as Timothy and bluegrass, take only a few months to establish themselves from seed, switchgrass often takes several years to form a thick, strong growth pattern. This slow rate of growth makes switchgrass an unsuitable choice for most lawns, but makes it a good variety for growing in pastures and meadows. Annual over-seeding helps thicken the stand and encourages quicker establishment in sparse areas of growth.

Seedling Weakness

• Switchgrass seedlings lack vigor and strength. Weed competition is one of the main reasons for switchgrass plant loss early in the growing stages. The young switchgrass seedlings produce lateral roots that remain close to the surface of the soil, rather than reaching downward for their nutrients and moisture. Allowing grazing during the first and second year of growth can result in the death of an entire stand.

Water Requirements

• Switchgrass prefers well-drained, moist soils. While this type of grass can withstand short-term floods, it does not do well in arid climates or areas with extended droughts between rainfalls. Keeping the soil continually moist at the level of the roots is imperative to the success of this variety of grass. Depending on your climate and soil, you may need to provide about 2 inches of water every one to two weeks. Grass that retains the impression of footprints is an indication that the grass is dry enough to require watering.

Disease

• Like many types of plants, switchgrass is prone to certain diseases that may reduce the quality and quantity of growth and production. Fungal diseases are some of the most common conditions that affect the health of this variety of grass. The damp conditions that switchgrass prefers to grow in makes it susceptible to the continual threat of leaf and stem mold, especially during periods of high humidity. Tilletia maclagani is one type of fungal disease that can spread and destroy large areas of switchgrass.

Varieties

• Several varieties of switchgrass exist, allowing you to choose a cultivar that grows best in your climate. 'Trailblazer' is a good choice for the Midwestern states and the Central Great Plains. 'Cave-in-Rock' tolerates flooding and is a suitable variety to grow in some southern locations. 'Sunburst' is a northern variety that provides a nutritious source of food for wildlife.