Starting a small (10-12 trees) new mixed orchard on site of an old ancient orchard which is resplendent in aggressive grasses. Would like to emphasize meadow/permaculture environment over monoculture grass underfoot. Have read about Yellow Rattle being helpful to keep grasses in check (being hemi-parasitic on grass roots) and support meadow plants from being overwhelmed by the grasses. Anyone try this and have experience/words of wisdom with introducing Yellow Rattle to grassland environment in the Pacific NW?
I haven't heard of that, but it's an interesting idea.
Eyebright is also parasitic on grasses and is a medicinal that's great to fight virus.
John S
PDX OR
I'm technically trying this, but only a couple yellow rattle seeds sprouted last year so I don't know yet if it will come back. The primary grass in the spot I'm trying is reed canary grass so I am also regularly weed-whacking it because of how tall it gets.
I am doing the same thing. My yellow rattle didn't come up last year so I am trying again in a different location. I am also trying red paintbush which does a similar thing. I got both from Northwest Meadoscapes. They have articles on how establish a meadow and others details, and sell many kinds of PNW seeds. They are based in Washington so fast shipping, and local advice. I will post here in the spring when they come up(or don't). I am in the foothills of the cost range near Philomath and its snow today so spring might be a ways off.
Chris