Publication Date

4-5-2026

Publisher

DPIRD

City

Perth

Abstract

  • Under irrigation, varieties of Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana) and panic grass (Megathyrsus maximus) grew more than 110 kg/ha dry matter per day, when averaged over a year, equal to more than 40 t/ha dry matter annually. Digit grasses (Digitaria spp.) were significantly lower yielding.
  • Daily growth rates were affected by seasonal conditions and ranged from 60–90 kg/ha in Barrgana season (June–August) to 110–170 kg/ha in Wirlburu-Laja (September–November). Panic grass was slightly more sensitive to cool temperatures than Rhodes grass.
  • Subtropical grasses outperformed tropical grass varieties such as Jarra grass, which had very low growth during the cool months (June–July).
  • Crude protein and metabolisable energy were highest during the cool season when growth rates were low. Protein levels were generally high (14.7%) and reflected nitrogen inputs. Metabolisable energy was moderate overall (8 MJ/kg dry matter).
  • Seasonal variation and growth rates affect feed quality more than variety choice.

Number of Pages

15

Keywords

Rhodes grass, panic grass, digit grass, protein, metabolisable energy, irigated fodder, Western Australia

Disciplines

Agronomy and Crop Sciences

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