has helped hold the soil moisture levels in check. We will likely see some sign of decreased yields especially in the non-irrigated areas of the valley and into the foothills of the Cascades.
As always this time of year, our production team is currently scouting fields and reporting on the quality of the crop. Te quality of crop looks to be good in most cases. While growers want to cut costs where they can, they also see the value in bringing a clean crop to market. Especially with sod quality growers, they focus extra time and resources on producing a high-quality, clean crop. Overall, the 2025 grass seed crop acres are down from recent years.
Markets are still highly competitive for most products. Elite type Kentucky bluegrass has had strong demand as production acres have decreased over the past couple of years. More and more municipalities, private sector landscapers, sports fields, and golf courses have expressed interest in not only water saving seed technology, but also lower input needs. A-LIST has provided a perfect fit for those being restricted on water usage and for those who want to minimize the amount of inputs being used. Many sod producers are taking advantage of this demand by growing A-LIST certified mixes and blends. Consumer demand across the country remains solid this spring and appears to be carrying through to summer.
2025 crop pricing will likely feel some downward pressure in species like Tall Fescue and Perennial Ryegrass. Elite type Kentucky Bluegrass pricing will remain steady. Like most times, quality products and the latest genetics will bring a premium.
MOUNTAIN VIEW SEEDS Provided by Mathis Kuenzi, Account Manager & Turf
supply of Perennial Ryegrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and some species of fine fescue. Due to the longer position, prices are lower than we’ve seen for the past five years or so. Industry- wide there are just a few shortages of specific species including sheeps fescue and alkali grass. International sales will be interesting moving forward considering the tariffs and counter-tariffs that are starting to take place.
Were there any significant weather issues that impacted last year’s seed crop? Te 2024 crop was quite normal from a weather perspective. Most farms saw average yields with the typical weather patterns throughout Oregon. No major heat events or storms altered the crops for the most part.
What is the forecast for this year’s growing season? Any special challenges growers may face? So far grass seed fields look good in Oregon. Tere has been vole (mice) pressure in perennial ryegrass and tall fescue fields which may have some effect on yields. Te Willamette Valley has received plenty of moisture, and most farmers have been able to apply their fertilizer during the short windows of sunshine this spring. Overall, the fields look healthy.
PURE SEED Provided by Crystal Fricker, President of Pure Seed and
Pure Seed shared this photo of Tall Fescue seed, the humble starting point of a resilient turfgrass plant that teams with other turfgrass species to form the stage on which athletes perform.
While this close-up view of one of Mountain View Seeds’ turfgrass cultivars shows a delicate beauty, all grasses that make it to the marketplace must meet high standards of performance, survival, and seed production.
Product Development How would you describe the status of the seed industry this season? Are there any supply issues or shortages? Overall, the industry remains in a long position on a few cool-season species, namely Tall Fescue. Tere also seems to be a strong
TPI Turf News July/August 2025
Pure-Seed Testing Te seed industry this season is marked by an oversupply of tall fescue and perennial ryegrass (PRG), while some fine fescues are in short supply. Market prices are poor, making it challenging for farmers, dealers, and producers to make a profit. Te excess of variety not stated (VNS) seeds has further driven market prices down. Tere were no significant weather issues impacting last year's seed crop. However, this year's growing season is expected to face challenges from worsening issues with voles and weeds.
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