Rhodes (Chloris gayana) Grass Seeds | 1kg (MOQ: 5kg)

Description

Rhodes (Chloris gayana) Grass Seeds | 1kg (MOQ: 5kg) is a perennial tropical grass widely cultivated for pasture, hay, and silage. It produces dense, leafy growth and is highly palatable to livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats. Known for its fast establishment, drought tolerance, and adaptability, Rhodes grass is ideal for both rainfed and irrigated fodder production systems. It also helps reduce soil erosion and can be intercropped with legumes for improved protein content and soil fertility.

Key Features of Rhodes (Chloris gayana) Grass Seeds | 1kg (MOQ: 5kg):

1. High-yielding perennial fodder grass.
2. Excellent drought and heat tolerance.
3. Fast growth and quick regrowth after cutting or grazing.
4. Suitable for hay, pasture, and silage.
5. Improves soil structure and controls erosion.

Characteristics:

1. Botanical Name: Chloris gayana
2. Growth Habit: Perennial grass (3–5 years lifespan)
3. Seeding Rate: 8–12 kg/ha (broadcast or drilled)
4. Maturity Period: 60–90 days after planting
5. Crude Protein: 8–12% (higher when young)
6. Yield Potential: 25–35 tons of green fodder per hectare

Applications:

1. Livestock feeding (cattle, sheep, goats, horses)
2. Grazing, haymaking, and silage production
3. Soil erosion control and land rehabilitation
4. Intercropping with legumes like Stylosanthes or Lablab

How to Use:

1. Land Preparation: Well-prepared, weed-free seedbed.
2. Planting: Sow at 0.5–1 cm depth with light cover; can be broadcast or drilled.
3. Watering: Moderate irrigation until establishment; drought-tolerant afterward.
4. Harvesting: First cut at 60–70 days, then every 4–6 weeks depending on growth.

Establishment & Planting Guide:

1. Land Preparation: A fine, firm seedbed is crucial for the small seeds.

2. Planting Time: Sow at the beginning of the rainy season for optimal germination and establishment.

3. Planting Method:

   • Sowing Rate: 2-4 kg per hectare (approx. 1-1.5 kg per acre) for pure stand. The 5kg MOQ is suitable for 3-5 acres.

   • Sowing Depth: VERY SHALLOW – 0.5 to 1 cm deep. Do not bury deeply, as this will prevent germination.

   • Method: Can be broadcast or drilled. Rolling after broadcasting ensures good seed-to-soil contact.

4. Companion Planting: Often grown with legumes like Lablab, Stylo, or Clover to create a balanced, high-protein pasture that also fixes its own nitrogen.

Management & Utilization:

1. Grazing Management: Begin grazing when the grass is 25-35 cm tall. Practice rotational grazing for sustainability. Avoid overgrazing.
2. Hay Production: Ideal for hay when cut at the early flowering stage. It cures quickly and produces a green, nutritious product.
3. Fertilization: Responds very well to nitrogen fertilization, which significantly increases yield and protein content.

Target Audience & Ideal Use:

1. Dairy & Beef Farmers: For high-quality grazing and hay production.
2. Sheep & Goat Farmers: Its leafy growth is excellent for small ruminants.
3. Hay Producers: A top-choice grass for commercial hay making.
4. Reclamation & Erosion Control: Used for quick ground cover on disturbed lands.

Cautions / Recommendations:

1. Avoid overgrazing during early establishment.
2. Best suited for tropical and subtropical climates.
3. Combine with legume fodders for balanced animal nutrition.