Fodder Production and Grassland Management

SEEDS AND SOWING

• Seed collection is a problem in many of the grass species. The seeds of Bajra Napier hybrid grasses (Co-1, Co-2, C-3 and Co CN-4) are sterile and there is no chance of seed propagation. Hence, vegetative propagation either through root slips or stem cuttings is done.
• By this way, we are able to maintain genetic purity also. One disadvantage of using root slips is that we need more volume of bulky stem cuttings/root slips which warrants additional expenses on cutting and transport.
• For guinea grass, seeds are available but there is seed dormancy for about 6-8 months and the germination is also very poor (20-40%). Considering this aspect, propagation through root slips is better. Similar is the case with buffalo / water grass and Cenchrus species. Hence, we can go for root slips in respect of guinea and water grass.
• In case of Cenchrus and other grass species, depending on the availability we can use either root slips or seeds (if available) or both (for covering larger area for pasture) under rainfed condition. Almost all the grass seeds are having dormancy at least for 4-6 months. Deenanath and Teosinte can be propagated through seeds.
• Season is also an important consideration for the success of the crop. Irrigated grass can be sown/planted throughout the year since there is water availability.
• Whereas, under rainfed condition, the grasses are to be sown/planted only during the onset of monsoon season (June / July sowing for S.W monsoon; Sept/ Oct sowing for N.E.monsoon)