Teff Management manual
Teff is a warm season annual summer grass which can be harvested multiple times during the growing season as hay, silage or pasture. As a fast-growing crop, Teff combines excellent forage quality with high yield during a relatively short growing season.
This Teff crop management manual provides you with the necessary information to get the most out of your Teff grass.
Sowing
| Seeding period | From late spring to mid-summer (after the risk of frost has passed). |
| Soil temperature | At least 16° C. |
| Seed bed | A firm seed bed is absolutely crucial. The soil must be prepared before sowing, but the top layer must be sufficiently firm for seeding. Roll the surface before sowing. |
| Seeding depth | Should not exceed 0.5 cm. |
| Seeding rate | 20 kg/ha (coated seed). |
| Seed to soil contact | Good seed to soil contact is required. Roll the surface after sowing. |
Fertilization
| In general | Teff is a low input crop, requiring minimal fertilization. |
| Fertilization | Application of 20-40 kg nitrogen after establishment can accelerate plant growth. Both manure and artificial fertilizer can be applied. Slurry can be applied after each cut with a maximum of 10m3. Do not apply later than 2 days after cutting. ½ part slurry and ½ part water. |
| Nitrogen (N) First cutting | Plantings may not need any additional nitrogen fertilization on the first cutting. |
| Nitrogen (N) Single applications | Excessive single applications of nitrogen above 110 kg/ha may result in lodging. |
| Nitrogen (N) Multiple cut | Multiple cut systems may require split applications per hectare: Fertilizer applications per hectare: - Nitrogen: 50 kg - Potassium: 60 kg - Phosphorus: 20 kg - Sulfur: 5 kg |
| Nitrogen (N) Total seasonal | Generally in the range of 55 to 100 kg of plant available nitrogen. |
Weeds and pests control
| Pre-plant cultivation | Can be effective, especially if Teff is planted immediately after cultivation. |
| Broadleaf herbicide | Growers should check with their local suppliers and follow all label instructions. If a broadleaf herbicide is applied, Teff should not be treated until the plant has at least 5 to 7 leaves. |
| Natural resistance | Following the initial root growth period, Teff grows very aggressive and can out-compete many weeds. |
Harvesting
| Cutting height | 10 cm |
| Moment of harvest | Harvest should occur in early boot stage and prior to seed head appearance to ensure optimal forage quality and regrowth in subsequent cuts. Maximum 10% flowering is very important for a succesful regrowth after harvest.
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| Cutting | Due to the fineness of its stems, Teff is one of the few annual forage crops that is suitable for making dry bales rather than having to ensile it. |
| Grazing | Although best suited for haying operations, Teff can be grazed by cattle, horses and sheep. Avoid pasturing until the root system has developed, excess stocking rates and over-grazing. |
Where to buy teff?
Moxie is our coated blend of warm season annual teff grasses. Moxie’s fast growth allows for excellent forage quality and high yield during a relatively short growing season. This makes it a great option for livestock and hay producers. Moxie also is an excellent cover crop and is drought tolerant.
Click on the button to find one of our distributors. Do you have any questions about teff? Do not hesitate and send an e-mail to export@barenbrug.nl.
