How to grow Boma Rhodes Grass in Kenya: A Profitable Forage Investment for Livestock Keepers

Boma Rhodes grass, a fast-growing and drought-tolerant forage crop, is gaining popularity among Kenyan farmers due to its high productivity and nutritional value for livestock. Native to South Africa and belonging to the Chloridoideae subfamily, this warm-season perennial grass thrives during the rainy season and becomes dormant in colder months. It is especially ideal for semi-arid and arid regions of Kenya due to its resilience in low rainfall conditions.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything Kenyan farmers need to know about Boma Rhodes grass, from its characteristics and benefits to detailed planting, management, and marketing tips.

Why Boma Rhodes Grass is Popular Among Kenyan Farmers

1. Drought Tolerance

Thanks to its deep root system, Boma Rhodes grass can survive long dry spells, making it suitable for regions receiving as little as 250mm of rainfall annually. This feature ensures year-round forage availability, especially in rain-fed farming systems.

2. Soil Protection and Land Rehabilitation

The grass grows fast and forms a dense cover that prevents soil erosion, making it ideal for rehabilitating degraded land and conserving soil.

3. High Palatability and Nutritional Value

Livestock—including dairy and beef cattle, sheep, and goats—find Boma Rhodes grass highly palatable. It supports good weight gain and milk production, especially when harvested young before flowering.

4. Suitable for Multiple Uses

Boma Rhodes grass performs well under both grazing and cut-and-carry systems. It is also excellent for haymaking, which can be sold or stored for use during dry seasons.

Varieties of Boma Rhodes Grass in Kenya

Several Rhodes grass varieties are grown in Kenya, including:

• Boma – Most popular for its rapid establishment and palatability.
• Giant Rhodes – Taller variety with higher biomass yield.
• Mbarara and Masaba – Known for better seed production and persistence.

Ideal Climatic and Soil Conditions

Rainfall and Altitude

• Minimum rainfall: 250 mm
• Optimal rainfall: 600–900 mm annually
• Suitable altitudes: 600 m – 2,000 m above sea level
• Performs well in areas like Kajiado, Laikipia, Kitui, and parts of Central and Rift Valley regions.

Soil Requirements

• Soil types: Loamy, sandy, or light clay soils
• pH range: 6.0 to 7.5
• Avoid poorly drained or highly acidic/alkaline soils

Pro Tip: Conduct a soil test before planting. You can use services from providers like CropNuts to determine the right soil amendments.

Land Preparation for Boma Rhodes Grass

To prepare the land:

1. Initial ploughing – Break up the soil and remove weeds.
2. Harrowing – Ensure a fine seedbed.
3. Pure stand planting – Do not intercrop to avoid competition during establishment.

Planting Guide

• Best Time: Early or short rains (March–April or October–November)
• Spacing: Drill seeds in furrows 25 cm apart.
• Seeding Rate: 12 kg per hectare or 1.2 kg for 0.1 ha (¼ acre)
• Seed Covering: Lightly cover seeds using tree branches or a rake.

Cost Estimate (Per Acre)

Fertilization and Weeding

• During Planting: Apply 1–2 bags of DAP or composted manure to enhance root growth.
• Top Dressing: Apply 100 kg/ha of nitrogen fertilizer (CAN or urea) during peak rains.
• Weeding: Perform manual or mechanical weeding during establishment. Keep the field clean for optimal yields.

Pests and Diseases

Boma Rhodes grass is relatively disease-resistant. However, armyworms may infest fields during wet conditions. Regular monitoring and timely intervention using approved pesticides are recommended.

Harvesting and Yield Expectations

Grazing and Cutting

• Begin grazing or cutting once the grass flowers.
• For cut-and-carry, cut close to the ground to encourage regrowth.
• Avoid overgrazing due to high palatability.

Yield Potential

• Year 1: 4–8 tonnes dry matter per hectare
• Year 2 and beyond: Up to 12 tonnes per hectare with good management

Haymaking and Marketing

Hay Production

Boma Rhodes grass is excellent for hay due to its:

• Fine leaf texture
• High leaf-to-stem ratio
• Fast drying and good storage quality

Hay Market in Kenya

• Average market price: KES 180–250 per bale
• One acre can produce up to 150–200 bales in one season
• Farmers can make KES 30,000–50,000 per harvest per acre

Selling Tips

• Sell hay during the dry season when demand is high.
• Package in quality bales and store in a dry, shaded area.
• Market to dairy farmers, ranchers, or through platforms like WhatsApp groups, Facebook, or local cooperatives.

Seed Production and Storage

• Seed Maturity: 23–25 days after flowering
• Harvesting Method: Cut seed heads using sickles and thresh manually
• Storage: Store clean, dry seeds in airtight bags; viable for up to 4 years
• Yield: 250–350 kg of seed per hectare under good management

Common Challenges

• Low Germination Rate: Use fresh, viable seeds from certified suppliers.
• Overgrazing: Implement a rotational grazing system to allow regrowth.
• Poor Establishment: Ensure timely weeding and proper moisture at planting.

Final Thoughts

Boma Rhodes grass farming offers a reliable and profitable forage solution for Kenyan farmers seeking to boost livestock productivity. Its resilience, high yields, and market demand for hay make it an excellent investment, especially in drought-prone areas.

Whether you’re a large-scale livestock farmer or a smallholder looking to maximize returns, Boma Rhodes grass can significantly enhance your farm’s sustainability and profitability.

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