It’s July, and that means the grass seed harvest is in full swing in Oregon and Washington. Overall, growers are expecting a good crop with a few exceptions. With the large crop of perennial ryegrass and tall fescue last year, many companies have adequate inventory carryover of these grasses and are ready to move seed; they are not going to be dependent on waiting on the harvest for the early part of the seeding season. This is good for you. The previous year’s harvest consistently germinates and performs better than newly-harvested seed. Seed experiences a process of after-ripening that increases the germination percentage considerably in the first six to 18 months after harvest.
We are seeing a continued underproduction of Kentucky bluegrass and many fine fescues. Some Kentucky bluegrass varieties are in short supply (and will remain as such until the harvest is cleaned), and I expect to see the price of most bluegrasses increase. Fine fescue fields did see some damage from vole activity, which will affect the amount of available seed, making a price increase likely. If you utilize these grasses, please plan accordingly.
We expect pricing on most of our seed products to hold fairly steady for the fall, with the exception of Kentucky bluegrass and fine fescue. We will have a better understanding of what these markets will do in the coming weeks. I am still advising that you get your orders in early so you know that your price and availability is locked in. Rates on freight coming from the West Coast typically increase as we move into August and September due to the increased demand. That can add to the effective price you will pay for seed delivered to your location or local warehouse.
To help you overcome some of the unknowns in the grass seed market, Advanced Turf Solutions is offering an early order program that will allow you to get the seed you need and pay for it at a later date. Give your rep a call to learn more and get started.
