Cock's-foot
Dactylis glomerata · Poaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cock's-foot: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous, grayish-green
- Flowering
- April to June
- Adult size
- 60 to 100 cm height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (−20 °C)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, fertile, tolerant
Care
Watering
Orchard grass is undemanding once established and tolerates dry periods well. Water regularly when planting and during prolonged drought. In natural meadows, natural water supply is generally sufficient.
Exposure
Plant in full sun or partial shade for optimal growth. This grass thrives in well-lit areas that promote productivity and foliage vigor. It also tolerates lightly shaded areas.
Pruning and cutting
Cut back the grass in late winter or early spring to encourage foliage renewal. For forage use, make cuts at appropriate growth stages (early heading). Leave a minimum height of 5 cm to preserve vitality.
Soil
Orchard grass adapts to a wide range of soils, from heavy to light. Fertile, well-structured and properly drained soil maximizes productivity. Tolerates moderate acidity and alkalinity.
Fertilizer
Apply balanced fertilizer in spring to stimulate growth. In agricultural or intensive settings, follow local recommendations based on forage or ornamental use. Annual compost application is sufficient in extensive contexts.
Diseases and pests
Orchard grass is generally robust and rarely subject to serious diseases. Occasionally monitor rusts and fungal diseases in prolonged very humid conditions. Good air circulation and adequate drainage reduce risks.
Did you know?
Orchard grass is a classic forage grass, widely cultivated in European permanent meadows since the eighteenth century. Its scientific name Dactylis means "finger" in ancient Greek, referring to the digitate shape of its inflorescence resembling fingers. It remains a major species for feeding domestic herbivores in both organic and conventional agriculture.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Tufted hair grassDeschampsia cespitosa
- Wavy hair-grassAvenella flexuosa
- Purple moor-grassMolinia caerulea
- Reed canary-grassPhalaris arundinacea
- Common quaking grassBriza media
- Creeping soft-grassHolcus mollis
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.