Orchard Grass Seed (Dactylis glomerata)
Orchard grass seed, scientifically known as Dactylis glomerata, is a cool-season perennial forage grass seed used for sowing in pastures and hayfields. It falls under HTS 1209.29.91.40 as seeds of forage plants, specifically orchard grass, intended for agricultural sowing to establish livestock feed crops. This classification applies to untreated or cleaned seeds ready for planting.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If seeds of alfalfa or clover
Alfalfa and clover are separate subheadings under forage plant seeds; orchard grass specifically falls under 1209.29.
If mixed with other non-forage seeds
Vegetable or flower seeds mixed in would shift to 'other seeds of a kind used for sowing' outside forage plants.
If processed into hay or silage, not for sowing
Once cut and dried as fodder, it moves out of Chapter 12 heading 1209 to compressed forage products.
Not sure which classification is right?
Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.
Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country to confirm the seeds are free from pests and diseases, as required by USDA APHIS for grass seeds
• Verify purity and germination rates through lab testing; U.S. customs may require documentation to ensure they qualify as 'seeds of a kind used for sowing'
• Avoid common pitfalls like mislabeling as cereal seeds (Chapter 10), which would change classification and duty rates
Related Products under HTS 1209.29.91.40
Certified Potlatch Orchard Grass Seed
Certified Potlatch variety orchard grass seed is a high-yielding cultivar selected for disease resistance and palatability in dairy pastures. Classified under HTS 1209.29.91.40 for orchard grass forage seeds used for sowing, it must meet varietal purity standards. Importers benefit from its established performance in temperate climates.
Organic Orchard Grass Seed
Organic orchard grass seed is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, certified for organic farming systems to produce chemical-free forage. It is classified in HTS 1209.29.91.40 as orchard grass seeds for sowing, provided no prohibited treatments alter its seed status. Ideal for organic dairy and beef operations.
Pennlate Orchard Grass Seed
Pennlate orchard grass seed is a late-maturing variety bred for persistent stands in mixed pastures with legumes. Under HTS 1209.29.91.40, it qualifies as orchard grass forage seeds for sowing due to its use in establishing long-term grazing areas. Known for stem rust resistance.
Hulled Orchard Grass Seed for Lawn Mixes
Hulled orchard grass seed has had hulls removed to improve planting density in lawn and turf blends. Still classified under HTS 1209.29.91.40 as orchard grass for sowing, as hulling doesn't change its forage seed purpose per chapter notes. Used in athletic fields and home lawns.
Rapido Italian Orchard Grass Seed
Rapido Italian orchard grass seed is an early-spring variety for intensive hay production in rotational grazing. HTS 1209.29.91.40 covers it as orchard grass forage seeds for sowing, emphasizing its agricultural planting use. High digestibility for silage.