Native Biomass FAQs

Using native warm season grasses for biomass production is a broad and multi-faceted topic, and can leave you with a number of questions. Here, we share some of the more common ones we’ve addressed during our years of experience. And for those questions that need more assistance, please contact our Customer Service Team.

Where is switchgrass native?


What soil conditions does switchgrass need to do well?


When do I plant switchgrass?


How is it planted?


It is also important to be conscious of the fact that this new stand may have a life of 15-20 years. Even in no or low tillage methods, care should be taken to smooth out ruts and holes in the field.


Do I have to re-plant switchgrass every year?

No. Native, warm season grasses are long-lived perennials which, once established and with proper management, will produce biomass for a period of 15-20 years.

What is required to manage an established stand of switchgrass?



What is required to harvest switchgrass?

Bale-Harvester-for-SwitchgrassNative, warm season grasses are harvested with traditional haying equipment readily found throughout the country.

How does switchgrass affect my soil?

Effects-of-Switchgrass-on-soilSwitchgrass has a root system that can grow up to 6’ deep. This root system can break through soil strata, such as plow pan or hardpan, and allows switchgrass to grow in a wide range of conditions. This root penetration also improves the structure of the soil.

Is switchgrass invasive?


Traditionally speaking, why do people plant switchgrass?



One of the most exciting characteristics of switchgrass is its potential to turn marginal land into productive land. Most people envision planting switchgrass and other native warm season grasses on marginal or currently unproductive land. Regardless of a market for it, the idea is that it doesn’t replace any current row crop production, but adds to the overall productivity of a farm.

Do switchgrass roots cause problems with field tiles?


How much biomass does switchgrass yield?

Bale-Harvesting-Equipment-for-SwitchgrassIn the Northeast U.S., it is not uncommon to see yields of 3-6 tons per acre with relatively little inputs.

What is biomass?

Biomass is “renewable organic materials, such as wood, agricultural crops or wastes, and municipal wastes, especially when used as a source of fuel or energy. Biomass can be burned directly or processed into biofuels, such as ethanol and methane.” -The American Heritage® Science Dictionary. Houghton Mifflin Company. 19 Feb. 2007.

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