Alamo Switchgrass

Panicum virgatum 'Alamo'(Grasses)

Alamo Switchgrass has become an alternative energy source by converting it from a biomass-based renewable energy source into a fuel like ethanol. Alamo and Kanlow Switchgrasses have much higher dry matter (DM) yield capability than upland cultivars. Alamo Switchgrass is a lowland variety of native Switchgrass originally collected on the banks of the Frio River near George West, Texas. It was evaluated, selected, and released by the Plant Materials Center near Knox City, Tx as a superior plant for its better forage yield and seed production., with good seedling vigor. It displays good resistance to stem rust disease. Alamo' switchgrass's performance is good on all kinds of soils from clays to fine sands. 'Alamo' can be used for range seeding, pastures, hay production, wildlife food and cover plantings, for revegetation of disturbed areas as well as for energy/biomass production.

The foliage is coarser than some varieties and may reach 10 feet in height. Alamo's late maturity date insures production well into early fall.

'Alamo' switchgrass is best adapted in areas where rainfall is 25 inches or more per year. In areas with less than 25 inches of annual precipitation, 'Alamo' switchgrass can be used under irrigation or on naturally wet sites. Alamo is not considered winter hardy north of I-70 in the central U.S.

A benefit for wildlife is the leaf canopy which provides very good protection for young, ground-nesting birds and mammals. It attracts insects for food and remains open at ground level for easy movement by the young. Kanlow and Alamo Switchgrass also make good screening along roadsides to prevent field viewing by passersby, and is extensively used by White Tail Deer as escape cover during and after the fall hunting season.

For good establishment, have your soil tested. A medium range of P and K is desirable with a pH of 5.5-6.5. Amendments may be applied prior to, during, or after seeding. Nitrogen should not be applied at seeding. Seeding can be done using no-till, conventional, or broadcast methods. Early spring planting when favorable soil moisture conditions usualy exist is best. Late planting promotes weed competition and jeopardizes good stand development. No-till or sod seedling with no seedbed preparation reduces weed competition and helps get the switchgrass off to a good start. Sod seeding requires burn-back of existing vegetation with a "burn-down" herbicide.

Regardless of planting method, give the switchgrass time to get established. Soil moisture and weed competition will determine how rapidly the stand develops. Some varieties of switchgrass may have a high percentage of hard seed which germinate the following season. In some cases, a useable stand develops the first year. However, as a general rule, the second or third growing season can be counted on for haying and/or grazing when managed properly. Plant the seed no more than 1/4 inch deep. Native seeds, except Eastern Gama which can be planted like corn, must be very shallow or even on top of the ground if cultipacking after planting.

After planting, carefully monitor weed competition. Mow or graze to minimize competition. Identify switchgrass seedlings and set mowing height above young seedlings or graze intensively for short duration to eliminate vegetative competition. The first growth of a first year planting should be cut or grazed at full-bloom rather than boot stage.

Broadleaf weeds should be eradicated early by using 2-4-D, Banvel, or similar herbicide. Always follow label directions when using a herbicide. Winter burns have provided effective weed control. Burning should not be done until plants are at least 2 to 3 years old. Check and abide by local policies and restrictions.

For other biofuel species see KANLOW SWITCHGRASS. Cave in Rock Switchgrass is also being evaluated for
biofuel production.

	Highly adaptable
	Suited to many applications
	Alamo and Kanlow varieties produce highest tonnage

Height 48-120 Inches

Spread 24-60 Inches

USDA Hardiness Zone 5 - 9

Characteristics & Attributes

Attracts Wildlife Upland Birds	Attributes Mass Planting	Exposure Sun	Other Characteristics Easy-to-establish BioFuel Cattle Forage
Soil Moisture Preference Average Moist