Management
Plant from late spring/early summer into a firm seed bed at a seeding depth of no deeper than 0.6 cm. Soil temperatures at planting should be at least 16° C and rising. Teff does not tolerate frost. Therefore, planting dates should be well beyond historic first spring frost dates. Teff grows best when air and soil temperature are warm. Early spring plantings during cool periods may result in slow growth and crop stunting. Teff should be cut before heading for best forage quality and leave a minimum of 10 cm stubble. Multiple cut systems may require split applications of nitrogen for maximum production. Delaying harvest until heading may adversely affect the yield of subsequent cuts and the total seasonal yield.
Tiffany Teff grass is a fine stemmed annual grass that has large crowns and numerous tillers, with a shallow, massive fibrous root system and a uniform plant height at harvest maturity. It was one of the very best forage producers in a USA breeding program. Based on its impressive results it was selected and tested in SA with great success. Its seasonal yield can range from 5 - 15 tons of dry hay per hectare depending on growing conditions and the number of cuttings. It is a cost-effective crop that requires minimal pest and weed control.
Key features
• It normally outyields SA Brown
• Multiple harvests during the season
• Excellent forage quality compared to other C4 grasses
• A very palatable “soft” forage for livestock
• No prussic acid concerns
• First crop in 45-55 days and 28-35 days between subsequent cuts
• A very palatable “soft” forage for livestock