Sheep Fescue: A Forage Option for Sheep Pastures

Sheep fescue (Festuca ovina) is a fine-leaved, perennial bunchgrass that merits consideration in sheep pasture systems, particularly on dry, low-fertility, or shallow soils where higher-producing cool-season grasses struggle to persist. This article evaluates sheep fescue against other common forage grasses for sheep operations, covering establishment, grazing management, nutritional value, and practical decision criteria. The content is intended for farmers, shepherds, farm employees, veterinarians, advisers, students, and farm planners who need evidence-based guidance on whether sheep fescue fits their specific pasture conditions and flock goals.

At a Glance: Sheep Fescue Compared with Other Forage Grasses

The table below summarizes key comparisons between sheep fescue and other forage grasses commonly used in sheep pastures. These comparisons draw on published research and should be interpreted within the context of your specific soil, climate, and management system.

Research on sheep fescue populations in semi-arid environments has examined morphological, agronomic, quality, and nutrient characteristics, indicating that this species is recognized as a viable forage option in dryland conditions [27]. The species is also identified as a key forage for wild ungulates in alpine environments, where it contributes to seasonal diets alongside other grasses and forbs [9].

Botanical and Agronomic Characteristics

Sheep fescue is a fine-leaved, densely tufted perennial bunchgrass native to Europe and parts of Asia. It is closely related to red fescue (Festuca rubra) but differs in growth habit, with sheep fescue forming distinct tufts instead of spreading by rhizomes. This growth form influences how the grass responds to grazing and how it competes with other pasture species.

The plant typically grows to 15 to 45 centimeters in height under grazing, though ungrazed plants may produce taller flowering stems. The leaves are narrow, bristle-like, and often blue-green in color. The root system is fibrous and deep, which contributes to the species' notable drought tolerance. This root architecture allows sheep fescue to access soil moisture at depths that shallow-rooted species cannot reach, making it a resilient choice for dryland pastures.

Sheep fescue is adapted to a wide range of soil conditions but performs best on well-drained, low-to-moderate fertility soils. It tolerates acidic conditions and shallow, stony ground where many other forage grasses fail. The species is not suited to waterlogged soils or to highly fertile conditions where more competitive grasses will outgrow it.

The agronomic evaluation of sheep fescue populations in semi-arid environments has demonstrated that this species can produce acceptable forage yields under challenging conditions [27]. This research supports the use of sheep fescue in dryland pasture systems where other species may not persist.

Nutritional Value and Palatability for Sheep

The nutritional quality of sheep fescue is adequate for maintenance and for growing animals when the forage is grazed at an immature stage. Like all grasses, the digestibility and protein content decline as the plant matures and produces flowering stems. The key to using sheep fescue effectively is to manage grazing so that animals consume the forage while it is still vegetative.

Research on forage digestibility in sheep has examined how different grass species and cutting times affect in vivo digestibility [28]. This work demonstrates that grass species differ in their digestibility and that cutting time significantly influences forage quality. For sheep fescue, the practical implication is that early grazing or cutting produces higher-quality forage than late grazing or cutting.

Palatability of sheep fescue is generally considered moderate to good when the grass is young and actively growing. As the plant matures, the fine, fibrous leaves become less appealing to sheep, and intake may decline. This pattern is consistent with general observations of how sheep select forage based on plant maturity and fiber content.

Studies of pasture quality with young grazing sheep have examined the chemical composition, botanical composition, and in vitro digestibility of herbage selected by oesophageal-fistulated sheep [21]. This research approach reveals that sheep are selective grazers and will choose higher-quality components of a mixed sward. In a pasture containing sheep fescue, sheep will preferentially graze the most digestible plants and plant parts available.

Comparison with Tall Fescue

Tall fescue is a widely used forage grass in sheep production systems, particularly in regions with hot summers or cold winters. However, the presence of the fungal endophyte Acremonium coenophialum in many tall fescue varieties creates significant management challenges. This endophyte produces ergot alkaloids that can reduce animal performance and cause a range of health problems.

Research on replacement stock management in the southern United States has identified the presence of Acremonium coenophialum in tall fescue as a major anti-quality factor [7]. The same review notes that phytoestrogens in clover and medic species, toxins in certain brush species, and mineral imbalances can also affect animal performance. For producers considering tall fescue, the endophyte status of the variety is a critical decision factor.

Studies on tall fescue seed consumption during gestation have shown that ergot alkaloid exposure during fetal development can alter subsequent growth, puberty attainment, and carcass quality in offspring [11]. Ewe lambs born to dams fed endophyte-infected fescue during late gestation tended to reach puberty later than those from endophyte-free fescue. Wether lambs exposed to ergot alkaloids in utero showed altered muscle weight, color, lipid deposition, fatty acid composition, and shear force values. These findings indicate that the effects of toxic endophyte exposure extend beyond immediate animal performance to affect the next generation.

Sheep fescue does not carry the same endophyte risk as tall fescue. While fungal endophytes can infect sheep fescue, the alkaloid profiles and their effects on livestock are not comparable to the well-documented toxicosis associated with tall fescue endophytes. Research on red fescue, a close relative, has shown that grazing pressure can increase endophyte hyphal load and alkaloid concentration in the plant [13]. This finding suggests that endophyte-grass interactions are complex and that grazing management can influence forage toxicity. Producers should be aware that endophyte-infected grasses can respond to defoliation by increasing alkaloid production, which may affect animal performance at high stocking densities.

For producers who currently use tall fescue, the decision to incorporate sheep fescue depends on the specific goals of the operation. If the primary concern is endophyte toxicosis and the pasture is on drought-prone, low-fertility soil, sheep fescue offers a lower-risk alternative. If the goal is high forage production on fertile soils, tall fescue will generally outyield sheep fescue, provided endophyte management is addressed.

Comparison with Perennial Ryegrass

Perennial ryegrass is the standard high-production forage grass in many temperate sheep systems. It establishes quickly, responds well to nitrogen fertilizer, and produces high-quality forage under irrigation or reliable rainfall. However, perennial ryegrass has significant limitations in dryland or low-fertility situations.

The drought tolerance of perennial ryegrass is poor to moderate compared with sheep fescue. In dryland pastures, perennial ryegrass often dies out during extended dry periods, leaving bare ground and reducing pasture persistence. Sheep fescue, by contrast, is adapted to semi-arid conditions and will survive drought periods that kill perennial ryegrass.

Research on dryland pasture species persistence in mixed swards has examined how different species survive and contribute to sward composition over time [23]. This work is directly relevant to producers considering sheep fescue for dryland pastures, as it demonstrates that species selection must be based on long-term persistence, beyond short-term production.

The nutritional quality of perennial ryegrass is generally higher than that of sheep fescue when both are grazed at the same stage of maturity. Perennial ryegrass has higher digestibility and protein content, which supports higher growth rates in lambs and higher milk production in ewes. However, this quality advantage is only realized when moisture and fertility are adequate for perennial ryegrass to grow. In dry conditions, perennial ryegrass stops growing and its quality declines, while sheep fescue continues to provide some forage.

For producers with irrigated or high-rainfall pastures, perennial ryegrass is likely the better choice for finishing lambs or supporting high-producing ewes. For producers with dryland pastures or low-fertility soils, sheep fescue offers a persistence advantage that may outweigh its lower yield potential.

Grazing Management for Sheep Fescue

Effective grazing management is essential to maintain sheep fescue in a productive and palatable state. The species is a bunchgrass, which means it does not spread vegetatively and relies on seed production or planting for regeneration. This growth habit has implications for grazing management.

Sheep fescue should be grazed when it reaches a height of 8 to 15 centimeters and rested when grazed down to 3 to 5 centimeters. This grazing height management maintains the plant in a vegetative state and promotes tillering. Continuous grazing at high stocking rates will weaken sheep fescue plants and reduce their persistence.

Rotational grazing is generally recommended for sheep fescue pastures. A rotation that provides adequate rest periods between grazing events allows the plants to recover and regrow. The length of the rest period depends on growing conditions, with longer rests needed during dry or cool periods.

Research on rest-grazing in alpine grasslands has shown that the timing of grazing initiation affects plant community stability and interspecific relationships [17]. Rest-grazing that begins during soil thawing resulted in small niche width and niche overlap of plants, overall positive interspecific associations, and high stability of plant communities. Delaying rest-grazing until plant re-greening resulted in large niche width and niche overlap, negative interspecific associations, and low stability. This research supports the principle that early rest from grazing, before plants begin active growth, benefits pasture health.

For sheep fescue pastures, the practical application is to avoid grazing during the critical early growth period in spring. Allowing the plants to establish a good root system and build energy reserves before grazing begins will improve persistence and productivity.

Establishment and Pasture Renovation

Establishing sheep fescue requires attention to seedbed preparation, seeding rate, and weed control. The species has small seeds and a relatively slow establishment rate compared with ryegrass or tall fescue. This means that competition from weeds or existing pasture species can be a significant problem during establishment.

A firm, weed-free seedbed is essential for successful establishment. Cultivation or herbicide application should be used to control existing vegetation before seeding. The seeding rate for sheep fescue in a pure stand is typically 8 to 12 kilograms per hectare. In a mixed sward, lower rates are used, depending on the other species in the mixture.

Sheep fescue can be seeded in either spring or fall, depending on the climate and the availability of moisture. In semi-arid regions, fall seeding is often preferred because it allows the seed to germinate with winter moisture and gives the seedlings a head start before the dry summer period. In cooler, wetter regions, spring seeding may be more reliable.

The evaluation of sheep fescue populations in semi-arid environments has shown that there is genetic variation among populations for morphological and agronomic traits [27]. This finding suggests that seed source matters and that producers should select varieties or populations adapted to their specific conditions.

For pasture renovation, sheep fescue can be direct-drilled into existing swards if the existing vegetation is suppressed. However, because sheep fescue establishes slowly, it is often more successful to renovate the pasture fully, creating a clean seedbed before seeding.

Mixed Swards and Companion Species

Sheep fescue is often used in mixed swards with other species that complement its growth habit and seasonal production pattern. Legumes such as white clover or birdsfoot trefoil can provide nitrogen to the sward and improve forage quality. Other grasses with different seasonal growth patterns can extend the grazing season.

Research on mixed pastures of alfalfa and tall fescue has examined how selenium supplementation affects nutrient intake and digestibility in grazing lambs [12]. This work demonstrates that mixed grass-legume pastures can support good animal performance when mineral nutrition is adequate. The same principles apply to sheep fescue-legume mixtures, though the lower fertility requirements of sheep fescue may favor more drought-tolerant legumes.

The persistence of dryland pasture species in mixed swards has been studied in Canterbury, New Zealand, where dryland conditions are common [23]. This research provides evidence on which species persist and contribute to sward productivity over time, information that is directly relevant to producers considering sheep fescue in mixtures.

When designing a mixed sward with sheep fescue, consider the following factors:

• Soil fertility and moisture availability
• Grazing management system
• Flock nutritional requirements
• Seasonal forage distribution
• Long-term persistence goals

A mixture that includes sheep fescue, a drought-tolerant legume, and possibly a summer-active grass can provide more consistent forage production than a pure sheep fescue sward.

Soil and Climate Suitability

Sheep fescue is adapted to a wide range of climatic conditions but performs best in regions with dry summers and moderate winters. The species is native to semi-arid and alpine environments, where it has evolved to survive drought, cold, and low fertility.

The species tolerates a soil pH range of approximately 5.0 to 7.5, though it prefers slightly acidic to neutral conditions. It grows on sandy, loamy, or stony soils and does not tolerate waterlogging. Poorly drained soils should be avoided for sheep fescue, as the plants will not persist under prolonged wet conditions.

In terms of climate, sheep fescue is hardy and can survive very cold winters. It is also drought-tolerant and will survive extended dry periods that kill less resilient species. However, its production is limited by moisture and fertility, so it will not produce high yields under favorable conditions.

Research on sheep fescue populations in semi-arid environments has confirmed that the species is well adapted to these challenging conditions [27]. The evaluation of morphological, agronomic, quality, and nutrient characteristics across different populations provides evidence for selecting appropriate germplasm for specific environments.

For producers in regions with less than 500 millimeters of annual rainfall, sheep fescue may be one of the few perennial grasses that can persist and provide forage. In higher-rainfall regions, sheep fescue can still be useful on shallow, stony, or low-fertility soils where other species fail.

Forage Production and Seasonal Growth Patterns

Sheep fescue produces most of its growth in spring and early summer, with a secondary growth period in fall if moisture is available. During the summer dry period, the plant becomes dormant and provides little forage. This seasonal growth pattern must be matched to flock nutritional requirements.

The dry matter yield of sheep fescue is low to moderate compared with other forage grasses. Under dryland conditions, yields of 2 to 4 tonnes of dry matter per hectare per year are typical. Under more favorable conditions, yields may reach 5 tonnes per hectare, but this is still below the production of tall fescue or perennial ryegrass under the same conditions.

Research on Brassica forages for sheep has shown that these crops can provide high yields of dry matter in the late fall to early winter period, with high carrying capacity for sheep [6]. While this research concerns Brassicas instead of sheep fescue, it illustrates the principle that different forage species can fill different seasonal niches in a grazing system. Sheep fescue can fill the spring and fall growth periods, while other species or crops may provide forage at other times.

For producers who need to match forage supply with flock demand, it is important to understand the seasonal growth pattern of sheep fescue and to plan grazing accordingly. Stockpiling sheep fescue for fall or winter grazing is possible, but the quality of the standing forage will decline as the plants mature.

Animal Performance on Sheep Fescue

The performance of sheep grazing sheep fescue depends on the quality of the forage at the time of grazing and the class of animal being grazed. Growing lambs and lactating ewes have higher nutritional requirements than dry ewes or mature wethers and will need higher-quality forage.

Research on pasture quality with young grazing sheep has examined live-weight growth and clean wool production on different pastures [22]. This work demonstrates that pasture quality directly affects animal performance and that the botanical composition of the sward influences what animals can select.

For growing lambs, sheep fescue grazed at an immature stage can support moderate growth rates, but these rates will be lower than those achieved on higher-quality forages such as perennial ryegrass or Brassica crops. Research on Brassicas has shown that lambs grazing these crops can achieve average daily gains of 19 to 330 grams per day, with gains generally higher than on stockpiled tall fescue or orchardgrass-red clover pastures [6]. This comparison illustrates the range of animal performance possible on different forages.

For dry ewes in maintenance condition, sheep fescue can provide adequate nutrition when grazed at an appropriate stage. The lower quality of mature sheep fescue may be acceptable for animals with low nutritional requirements, but it will not support lactation or rapid growth.

Research on the comparative evaluation of weaning and feeding strategies in lamb production has shown that grazing systems can produce good carcass and meat quality [14]. Lambs that were grazed and suckled showed the most balanced overall performance, with higher lean percentage and better carcass compactness indices. This research supports the use of well-managed grazing systems for lamb production.

Mineral Nutrition and Supplementation

The mineral content of sheep fescue varies with soil conditions, plant maturity, and fertilization practices. In regions with low soil selenium, forage selenium levels may be inadequate for sheep, requiring supplementation.

Research on selenium supplementation in sheep grazing mixed alfalfa and tall fescue pastures has shown that supplementation at 6 micrograms per kilogram of body weight improves nutrient intake and digestibility and reduces methane emissions [12]. This research also found that selenium intake, blood selenium, and retained selenium were negatively correlated with forage crude protein content and positively correlated with fiber content. The recommendation from this work is to supplement selenium at 6 micrograms per kilogram of body weight for sheep grazing pastures in regions with low soil selenium.

For producers using sheep fescue pastures, mineral testing of forage and soil can identify potential deficiencies. Blood testing of animals can confirm mineral status and guide supplementation decisions. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides resources on animal production and protection that may be relevant to mineral nutrition and other production concerns [5].

Health and Welfare Considerations

The health and welfare of sheep grazing sheep fescue are generally good when the pasture is well managed and animals have access to adequate nutrition, water, and shelter. However, several considerations are relevant to sheep fescue pastures.

Heat stress is a concern for grazing sheep in many regions. Research on dairy sheep in Italy has shown that pasture management, including access to water and shade, affects blood parameters and animal welfare under heat stress conditions [25]. Sheep with access to both water and shade showed lower red blood cell counts, hematocrit, and hemoglobin compared with sheep without shade or water. Providing shade and water can improve sheep health in hot climates.

For sheep fescue pastures, the provision of shade and water is particularly important in semi-arid regions where summer temperatures are high. The low growth habit of sheep fescue provides little shade, so trees, constructed shade structures, or access to sheltered areas should be provided.

Gastrointestinal parasitism is a common concern in grazing sheep. Research on gastrointestinal parasitism in hair sheep and meat goat breeds grazing naturally infected pasture has examined the parasite burden and its effects on animal performance [20]. While this research concerns hair sheep and goats, the principles of parasite management apply to all grazing sheep.

For sheep fescue pastures, the low growth habit and dry conditions may reduce parasite larval survival compared with lush, moist pastures. However, parasite management should still be based on regular monitoring and targeted treatment, following the guidance of veterinary professionals.

The World Organisation for Animal Health provides resources on animal health and welfare that may be relevant to sheep producers [4]. The USDA National Agricultural Library also provides information on animal health and welfare [2].

Records and Measurements for Pasture Management

Effective management of sheep fescue pastures requires systematic record-keeping and measurement. The following records are recommended for producers using sheep fescue:

• Pasture establishment date, seed source, seeding rate, and establishment success
• Grazing dates, stocking rates, and rest periods for each paddock
• Forage height and estimated dry matter before and after grazing
• Soil test results and fertilizer applications
• Animal performance data, including live weight gains and body condition scores
• Health records, including parasite treatments and mineral supplementation
• Weather data, including rainfall and temperature

Forage measurement can be done using a rising plate meter, a sward stick, or visual assessment. Regular measurement allows producers to match stocking rate to forage availability and to adjust grazing management as conditions change.

Research on sensor technologies in grassland research has shown that remote sensing and other sensor technologies can enhance field-based studies and contribute to a deeper understanding of grassland conditions [18]. While these technologies may not be practical for all producers, they illustrate the potential for data-driven pasture management.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on animal production that may be relevant to pasture management and livestock production [1].

Common Failure Patterns in Sheep Fescue Pastures

Several common problems can reduce the success of sheep fescue pastures. Understanding these failure patterns can help producers avoid them.

Overgrazing is the most common cause of sheep fescue decline. Because the species is a bunchgrass, it is vulnerable to repeated defoliation without adequate rest. Continuous grazing at high stocking rates will weaken plants and eventually kill them. The solution is to use rotational grazing with adequate rest periods.

Underutilization is another common problem. If sheep fescue is not grazed sufficiently, it will mature and become unpalatable and low in quality. The fine leaves become fibrous, and sheep will avoid grazing the mature plants. The solution is to maintain adequate stocking rates and to graze the pasture before the plants become too mature.

Weed invasion can occur in sheep fescue pastures, particularly during establishment or after drought. Weeds compete with sheep fescue for moisture and nutrients and can reduce pasture productivity. The solution is to establish a competitive sward and to manage grazing to maintain plant vigor.

Fertility decline can occur in sheep fescue pastures if nutrients are not replaced. While sheep fescue tolerates low fertility, it will respond to some fertilization, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. Soil testing and appropriate fertilization can maintain pasture productivity.

Poor establishment is a common problem with sheep fescue, particularly if the seedbed is not well prepared or if weeds are not controlled. The slow establishment rate of sheep fescue makes it vulnerable to competition. The solution is to prepare a clean, firm seedbed and to control weeds during establishment.

Limitations and Tradeoffs of Sheep Fescue

Sheep fescue has several limitations that producers should consider before incorporating it into their pasture systems.

The low yield potential of sheep fescue is its primary limitation. On fertile, well-watered soils, other grasses will produce significantly more forage. Sheep fescue is best suited to situations where other grasses cannot persist, such as dry, shallow, or low-fertility soils.

The seasonal growth pattern of sheep fescue limits its usefulness in systems that require year-round forage production. The summer dormancy period means that other forages must be available to fill the gap.

The quality of sheep fescue declines rapidly with maturity, limiting the flexibility of grazing management. Producers must graze the pasture at the right stage to maintain quality, which requires careful planning and monitoring.

The establishment of sheep fescue is slower and less reliable than that of other grasses, requiring more careful management during the establishment period.

For producers considering sheep fescue, it is important to weigh these limitations against the advantages of drought tolerance, persistence on poor soils, and low endophyte risk.

Decision Framework for Incorporating Sheep Fescue

The decision to incorporate sheep fescue into a pasture system should be based on a careful assessment of soil, climate, and flock goals. The following framework can guide this decision.

First, assess the soil and climate conditions of the pasture. Sheep fescue is best suited to well-drained, low-to-moderate fertility soils in semi-arid or dryland climates. If the soil is fertile and well-watered, other grasses will likely be more productive.

Second, assess the flock goals and nutritional requirements. If the goal is to finish lambs or support high-producing ewes, higher-quality forages will be needed. If the goal is to maintain dry ewes or to provide forage in challenging conditions, sheep fescue may be appropriate.

Third, consider the existing pasture system and how sheep fescue would fit. Sheep fescue can be used in pure stands or in mixtures with legumes and other grasses. It can fill a specific niche in a grazing system, such as providing forage on dry, shallow soils that other species cannot occupy.

Fourth, consider the management capacity of the operation. Sheep fescue requires careful grazing management to maintain quality and persistence. Producers who cannot provide this management may be better served by lower-maintenance forage systems.

Fifth, consider the long-term goals of the operation. Sheep fescue is a long-lived perennial that can persist for many years if managed well. This persistence is an advantage in extensive systems but may be a disadvantage in intensive systems where pasture renovation is planned.

Professional Escalation Criteria

Producers should seek professional advice when they encounter problems that exceed their capacity to diagnose and resolve. The following situations warrant professional consultation:

• Persistent poor animal performance on sheep fescue pastures despite appropriate grazing management
• Signs of mineral deficiency or toxicity in grazing sheep
• Unexplained illness or death losses in sheep grazing any pasture
• Questions about endophyte status of forage grasses and its implications for animal health
• Complex pasture renovation or establishment projects
• Regulatory questions about animal health, food safety, or environmental management

Veterinary professionals can provide guidance on animal health and nutrition. Agricultural advisers can provide guidance on pasture establishment and management. The FDA provides resources on animal veterinary topics, including feed and drug regulations [3].

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sheep fescue and how does it differ from tall fescue?

Sheep fescue (Festuca ovina) is a fine-leaved, perennial bunchgrass adapted to dry, low-fertility soils. Tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) is a larger, more productive grass that is commonly infected with a fungal endophyte that produces ergot alkaloids. These alkaloids can reduce animal performance and cause health problems in sheep [11]. Sheep fescue does not carry the same endophyte risk and is more drought-tolerant, but it produces less forage than tall fescue.

Can sheep fescue support growing lambs?

Sheep fescue can support moderate growth rates in lambs when grazed at an immature stage, but growth rates will be lower than those achieved on higher-quality forages. Research on pasture quality with young grazing sheep has shown that pasture quality directly affects animal performance [22]. For finishing lambs, higher-quality forages such as perennial ryegrass or Brassica crops may be more appropriate [6].

Is sheep fescue suitable for hay or silage production?

Sheep fescue has limited hay or silage potential due to its low yield and fine leaves. The species is better suited to grazing than to conservation. Research on grass species and cutting time has shown that digestibility varies among species and with cutting time [28]. For hay or silage production, other grasses such as tall fescue or orchardgrass are generally more suitable.

How should sheep fescue be grazed to maintain persistence?

Sheep fescue should be grazed rotationally with adequate rest periods between grazing events. Graze when the pasture reaches 8 to 15 centimeters in height and rest when grazed down to 3 to 5 centimeters. Avoid continuous grazing at high stocking rates, which will weaken the plants. Research on rest-grazing has shown that the timing of grazing initiation affects plant community stability [17].

What companion species work well with sheep fescue?

Drought-tolerant legumes such as birdsfoot trefoil or subclover can complement sheep fescue by providing nitrogen and improving forage quality. Other grasses with different seasonal growth patterns can extend the grazing season. Research on mixed pastures has shown that grass-legume mixtures can support good animal performance when managed well [12].

Does sheep fescue require fertilizer?

Sheep fescue tolerates low fertility but will respond to some fertilization, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus. Soil testing should guide fertilizer applications. In low-selenium regions, selenium supplementation may be needed for grazing sheep [12].

What are the main limitations of sheep fescue for sheep production?

The main limitations are low yield potential, seasonal growth patterns with summer dormancy, rapid quality decline with maturity, and slow establishment. Sheep fescue is best suited to dry, low-fertility soils where other grasses cannot persist.

How does sheep fescue compare with perennial ryegrass for sheep pastures?

Perennial ryegrass produces higher-quality forage and supports higher animal performance than sheep fescue under favorable conditions. However, perennial ryegrass requires fertile, well-watered soils and does not persist under drought. Sheep fescue is more drought-tolerant and will persist on poor soils where perennial ryegrass fails [23].

Related Farming Guides

• Pasture Management for Dairy Cows: Grasses, Grazing, and Soil Health
• Bison Pasture and Forage Management: Grazing Systems and Species Selection
• Camel Pasture and Forage Management: Grazing Systems and Browse Species
• Cervid Pasture and Forage Management: Grazing Systems and Species Selection
• Goat Pasture and Forage Management: Species Selection and Grazing Systems

References and Further Reading

• FAO Animal Production and Health. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
• Animal Health and Welfare. USDA National Agricultural Library.
• Animal and Veterinary Resources. U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
• Animal Health and Welfare. World Organisation for Animal Health.
• Animal Production and Protection. USDA Agricultural Research Service.
• Evaluation of Brassicas in grazing systems for sheep: I. Quality of forage and animal performance.. Journal of animal science, 1994.
• Managing replacement stock within the environment of the south--plant, soil, and animal interactions: a review.. Journal of animal science, 1993.
• Llama and sheep ruminal fluid digestive capacity by in vitro gas production technique.. Journal of the science of food and agriculture, 2022.
• Seasonal diet composition of Pyrenean chamois is mainly shaped by primary production waves.. PloS one, 2019.
• Pre-Partum Supplementation with Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Colostrum Characteristics and Lamb Immunity and Behavior after a Mild Post-Weaning Aversive Handling Period.. Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2022.
• Feeding Tall Fescue Seed during Mid and Late Gestation Influences Subsequent Postnatal Growth, Puberty, and Carcass Quality of Offspring.. Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2020.
• Selenium supplementation improves nutrient intake and digestibility, and mitigates CH(4) emissions from sheep grazed on the mixed pasture of alfalfa and tall fescue.. Journal of animal physiology and animal nutrition, 2021.
• Unpacking multi-trophic herbivore-grass-endophyte interactions: feedbacks across different scales in vegetation responses to Soay sheep herbivory.. Die Naturwissenschaften, 2018.
• Comparative evaluation of weaning and feeding strategies in lamb production: effects on carcass and meat characteristics.. 2026.
• Long-term reproductive, growth, and carcass performance of Morkaraman, Awassi, and Tuj sheep in semi-arid extensive systems.. 2026.
• Effects of grazing and housing system on growth performance, serum indices, rumen fermentation parameters, and microbial community in Gangba sheep.. 2026.
• Initiation of rest-grazing during soil thawing improves interspecific relationships and stability of plant communities on alpine grassland.. 2024.
• Unlocking the synergistic potential of sensor technologies in grassland research.. 2025.
• Impact of Different Land-Use Types on Soil Microbial Carbon Metabolism Function in Arid Region of Alpine Grassland.. 2024.
• Gastrointestinal Parasitism in Hair Sheep and Meat Goat Breeds Grazing Naturally Infected Pasture 1. 2005.
• An evaluation of pasture quality with young grazing sheep. II. Chemical composition, botanical composition and in vitro digestibility of herbage selected by oesophageal-fistulated sheep. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 1966.
• An evaluation of pasture quality with young grazing sheep. I. Live-weight growth and clean wool production. Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 1966.
• Persistence of dryland pasture species in mixed swards in Canterbury. 1994.
• EverGraze: the productive management of perennial grazing systems in extreme drought. 2008.
• Changes in hematological and hematochemical parameters in lactating dairy sheep according to different pasture management and heat stress risk: A longitudinal study. Veterinary and Animal Science, 2024.
• Microbial populations and ruminal fermentation of sheep and llamas fed low quality forages. Small Ruminant Research, 2018.
• Evaluation of morphological, agronomic, quality, and nutrient characteristics of sheep fescue (Festuca ovina L.) populations in semi-arid environments. Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, 2025.
• Effect of grass species and cutting time on in vivo digestibility of silage by horses and sheep. Livestock Science, 2012.
• Intake, digestibility, and nitrogen balance by sheep offered ensiled tall fescue, meadow fescue or orchardgrass that was fertilized with dairy slurry or urea. Animal Feed Science and Technology, 2022.

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.