ABSTRACT
Lolium multifl orum Lam. is the most widely used forage species in the world. The species contain annual forms known as annual or westerwolds ryegrass as well as biennial forms known as Italian ryegrass. They are widely used throughout the world in winter or summer growing conditions which are not subject to severe cold, heat or drought during the relevant growth period. In terms of soil conditions, they require good fertile and soil moisture, however, they can withstand wet conditions and low pH soils. The species are used for turf, forage and quick cover against erosion because of their high tolerance of frequent mowing, high digestibility, palatability and rapid growth. The ryegrasses are often used in mixtures with legumes to provide nitrogen and to improve the quality of forage produced.
