Conversion of Bermudagrass to a Switchgrass Monoculture Or Mixed Nativegrasses.

Interest in nativegrass establishment and management has increased in recent years among beef cattle producers due to the rising costs of nitrogen for bermudagrass production.  Addtionally many producers have been able to take advantage of leasing areas that are in native range for recreational activities.  Nativegrass establishment can be tricky due to a number of variables but control of existing bermudagrass would be the most limiting factor toward success of the conversion to nativegrass. Little research information is available on the conversion of bermudagrass to nativegrass. Our objectives were to determine the methodology for the successful elimination of established bermudagrass and establishment of nativegrass or a monoculture of switchgrass. Compare no-till vs conventional till establishment methods. Early results indicate that the major contributor to successful stand establishment is tillage.