Cenchrus Ciliaris, Buffel Grass – 0.5 kg Seeds

Cenchrus ciliaris, commonly known as Buffel Grass, is a robust perennial grass native to Africa and Asia, now widely cultivated in arid and semi-arid regions around the world. This drought-resistant grass is renowned for its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for erosion control and land rehabilitation. With its deep root system, Buffel Grass not only stabilizes the soil but also enhances soil fertility, making it a sustainable option for farmers and landowners.

What makes Buffel Grass special is its exceptional adaptability to harsh climates and its high nutritional value for livestock. It is a preferred forage for cattle, sheep, and goats, providing essential nutrients while promoting healthy weight gain. Its resilience and low maintenance requirements make it a favorite among farmers looking to improve pasture quality and increase livestock productivity.

One of the standout features of Buffel Grass is its rapid growth rate, which can reach up to 1 meter in height within a few months. This grass not only provides excellent ground cover but also contributes to biodiversity by supporting various wildlife species. Its ability to sequester carbon makes it an environmentally friendly choice for sustainable agriculture.

Growing Instructions:

• Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth.
• Seeding: Sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, spacing them 30 cm apart.
• Watering: Water regularly until established; drought-tolerant once mature.
• Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 20C to 35C.

Care Instructions:

• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Mowing: Mow periodically to encourage bushier growth and prevent flowering.
• Pest Control: Monitor for pests; use organic pesticides if necessary.
• Weed Management: Keep the area weed-free, especially during the establishment phase.

Uses:

• Forage: Ideal for grazing livestock, providing high-quality nutrition.
• Erosion Control: Effective in stabilizing soil and preventing erosion.
• Land Rehabilitation: Used in restoration projects to improve degraded lands.
• Ground Cover: Excellent for landscaping and preventing weed growth.

Fun Facts:

• Buffel Grass can grow in areas receiving as little as 250 mm of rainfall annually.
• It was introduced to Australia in the 19th century and has since become a staple in pastoral farming.
• This grass species is known to improve soil structure and increase organic matter content.
• Buffel Grass is a key player in carbon sequestration, helping mitigate climate change.