How to Grow High Quality Boma Rhodes Grass

Feeding livestock in Kenya has become one of the biggest challenges for farmers—especially during prolonged dry seasons. Drought, unpredictable rainfall, and rising costs of commercial feeds have made it difficult to maintain healthy and productive animals year-round. However, there is a practical and profitable solution: Boma Rhodes grass.

This drought-tolerant, high-yielding grass is gaining popularity across Kenya because of its ability to provide consistent, nutritious fodder for cows, goats, and sheep. If you are looking to cut feed costs, secure your livestock’s future, and generate additional income, this article will show you why planting Boma Rhodes grass is the smart move.

What is Boma Rhodes Grass?

Boma Rhodes (Chloris gayana) is a hardy perennial grass native to Africa and well-adapted to the Kenyan climate. It is a fast-growing, leafy fodder grass ideal for hay production and direct grazing. Boma Rhodes is particularly known for:

• Its ability to withstand drought conditions
• Rapid regrowth after cutting
• High nutritional content for livestock
• Suitability for different soil types across Kenya

It is one of the best grasses for cut-and-carry systems, hay production, or rotational grazing on pasture.

Benefits of Planting Boma Rhodes Grass

1. Reliable Year-Round Livestock Feed

Boma Rhodes can be harvested up to 3–4 times a year under good management. It provides consistent, protein-rich feed even when other grasses dry out.

2. High Hay Yield and Income Potential

Under proper management, one acre of Boma Rhodes can produce up to 250 bales of hay per season. With hay prices averaging Ksh 250 per bale, that’s Ksh 62,500 per acre in gross income—multiple times a year!

3. Drought Resistance

Boma Rhodes has deep roots that allow it to thrive in semi-arid areas. This makes it an excellent fodder option for regions like Kitui, Makueni, Laikipia, Narok, Baringo, and Kajiado.

4. Soil Conservation

Its strong root system prevents soil erosion and improves soil structure. It also enhances soil fertility over time, especially when used in rotational grazing systems.

5. Fast Regrowth

After cutting or grazing, Boma Rhodes recovers quickly—often within 4–6 weeks—allowing multiple harvests per year with minimal replanting.

6. Improves Milk and Meat Production

The high protein and energy content in Boma Rhodes boosts milk yields and accelerates weight gain in beef cattle and small ruminants.

How to Plant Boma Rhodes Grass in Kenya

1. Land Preparation

• Clear the land of weeds and old vegetation.
• Plough and harrow the field until the soil is fine and level.
• Create a firm seedbed for good seed-to-soil contact.

2. Seed Rate and Spacing

• Use 5–7 kg of seeds per acre.
• Broadcast the seeds evenly, preferably mixed with sand or dry soil to ensure uniform distribution.

3. Planting Season

• Best time to plant is at the onset of the rainy season (March–May or October–November).
• Lightly cover the seeds with a rake or roller. Avoid burying them too deep.

4. Fertilizer Application

• Apply DAP at planting (50 kg/acre) to support early growth.
• Top-dress with CAN or Urea after 4–6 weeks for vigorous regrowth.

Management Practices for High Yields

– Weeding

• Weed manually or chemically 2–3 weeks after planting.
• Keep the field clean to prevent competition for nutrients and water.

– Irrigation (Optional)

• In dry areas, occasional irrigation during dry spells will enhance regrowth and boost yields.

– Grazing Intervals

• Allow 6–8 weeks between grazing or cutting to give the grass time to regrow and recover.

Harvesting and Storage

– When to Harvest

• Cut the grass when it reaches 60–90 cm in height (just before flowering) for maximum nutritional value.

– Hay Making

• Cut using a slasher or mower, then sun-dry for 2–3 days.
• Turn the grass frequently to dry evenly and avoid mold.
• Bale the hay and store in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

Cost and Profit Estimates Per Acre

Here’s a breakdown of the costs and expected returns per acre under good management:

Expected Revenue:

• 250 bales x Ksh 250 = Ksh 62,500

Profit:

• 62,500 – 20,300 = Ksh 42,200 per season per acre

If harvested three times a year, that’s over Ksh 126,000 in annual profit per acre.

Why Boma Rhodes is a Long-Term Investment

Unlike seasonal crops, Boma Rhodes grass continues to grow and regenerate for 3–5 years under good care. With minimal replanting, it guarantees feed security and income stability year after year. It also fits perfectly into integrated farming systems—combining livestock, crops, and conservation agriculture.

Farmer Success Story: Peter from Kajiado

Peter, a smallholder farmer in Kajiado, planted 2 acres of Boma Rhodes in 2022. By 2024, he was producing over 500 bales per season and supplying hay to local dairy cooperatives. “I no longer buy feeds, and I make over Ksh 100,000 every few months from hay sales,” he says. His cows are healthier, his pastures greener, and his income more reliable.

Final Thoughts: Secure Your Feed, Secure Your Farm

Kenya’s climate is becoming increasingly unpredictable—but your livestock feed doesn’t have to be. By investing in Boma Rhodes grass, you are securing your cows’ nutrition, saving on feed costs, protecting your soil, and opening up a profitable income stream.

Now is the best time to plant. Prepare your land, source certified seeds from reputable suppliers, and get ready for a future of sustainable, productive farming.

Ready to plant? Buy certified Boma Rhodes seeds today from trusted suppliers near you. For more guidance on fodder production, irrigation, and hay baling equipment, contact Graduate Farmer Limited on 0798857668