Blade Energy Crops releases switchgrass guide

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Blade Energy Crops, a seed brand of Ceres Inc., has released a 20-page guide, titled "Planting and Managing Switchgrass as a Dedicated Energy Crop 2009," which summarizes the most recent data and experiences from the company's energy crop trialing network. The free resource details switchgrass variety selection and planting considerations; fertility, pest and weed management in post-established years; timing, frequency and methods of harvesting; and growing incentives. Ceres Communications Manager Gary Koppenjan said energy crops such as switchgrass provide new options for growers, especially for underperforming acres, but there is a learning curve. "This guide seems to be a good resource to get the process started," he said.