Table of Contents
When should I plant Rhodes grass seed?
Optimum Sowing Time: We recommend sowing Katambora Rhodes Grass between September and March, depending on the climate, and when there is more probability of receiving consecutive rain days. Germination: Approximately 7 days depending on climate, soil preparation and conditions. Full coverage is expected by 3 months.
How long does Rhodes grass take to grow?
Rhodes grass is readily established from seed. The seed germinates quickly (1–7 days) depending on temperature. Rhodes grass displays good seedling vigour and often achieves full groundcover within three months of sowing.
How do you seed Rhodes grass?
Seed is best sown on the surface (and no deeper than 2 cm) of a well-prepared seedbed, followed by rolling. Pasture seed can germinate in 1‒7 days, and seedlings develop rapidly. Katambora Rhodes grass responds to phosphorus in poorer soils.
Is Rhodes grass native to Australia?
Rhodes grass is a morphologically variable out-crossing species, which is native to east, central and southern Africa where it occurs in open grasslands. It was introduced into Australia by soldiers returning from the Boer war, who brought with them the common variety (cv ‘Pioneer’).
How is Rhodes grass planted?
Mix grass seed thoroughly with a carrier (sand, soil, sawdust, or manure). Plant in shallow furrows50cm apart by drilling, cover seeds lightly with soil. Seed rate is 5kg per ha. For better establishment plant at the beginning of long rains in coastal Kenya or short rains (September October) in eastern Kenya.
How do you grow Rhodes grass?
The seed must maintain close contact with wet soil for about three days to establish a seedling. Sub-soil moisture will sustain the seedling until follow-up rainfall occurs. This rain will also promote the development of secondary roots. This allows the crown of the establishing grass to develop.
Where is Rhodes grass found in Queensland?
South East Queensland
Rhodes grass can invade rainforest fringes and smother native ground cover species. It is found in parts of South East Queensland.
How do you plant Boma Rhodes seeds?
Either broadcast grass seeds or drill in rows 30–40 cm apart. Mix the seeds with sawdust, rough sand or fertilizer for an even distribution in the field. If the seed is mixed with fertilizer, plant immediately to prevent the fertilizer from burning the seed. Grass seeds are mostly planted with a wheat drill.
Is Rhodes grass hay good for cattle?
Australian Premium Seeds Rhodes grass breeder Dr Don Loch, pictured in a breeding block at Gatton in Queensland, says newer varieties of Rhodes grass are preferred by cattle because of their leafiness and fewer seed heads in the pasture compared with older varieties.
How long does Boma Rhodes take to germinate?
Seeds germinate in 1-7 days and seedlings develop rapidly. Apply fertilizer or manure during planting to promote strong root development.
Is Rhodes grass good for cattle?
Cattle grazing on the irrigated Rhodes grass are growing at rates up to 0.7kg/day with no supplements (other than an annual long‑acting selenium injection). The Rhodes grass offers 16–18% protein so the cattle don’t need anything else to meet their protein requirements.
How long does Boma Rhodes take to grow?
Plant Spacing (cm) 60×60. Seed rate/acre (Kgs) 0.1. Maturity 75 – 85 Days. Excellent Field Holding ability and Long Shelf Life.