The potential of Sporobolus fimbriatus as a planted pasture was evaluated in terms of relative growth rate, cumulative growth, dry matter production, grazing capacity, leaf: stem ratio and quality (crude protein and digestibility).
The growth pattern is typical of a tropical grass. The mean dry matter production under a non?grazing and grazing regime was 3329 kg/ha and 2 720 kg/ha respectively. The mean grazing capacity was 4,22 ha/LS U/yr. The leaf : stem ratio varied considerably between seasons and was more favourable under a non?grazing regime. Both the crude protein content and digestibility of selected material satisfy the nutritional requirements of the grazing ruminant.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.