Entering the infant markets of fodder production is a great business area to venture
into because if local fodder production is boosted, there will be a significant reduction in the
imports of animal fodder and increase animal productivity, as well as rangeland restoration.
This is in line with Botswana's government reset priorities, with much reference to Priority
4: Value chain development, and Priority 5: Mindset change. One of the important perennial
subtropical grasses in the Poaceae family is called brachiaria grass. Although it is native to
Africa, it is commonly grown in South America, Asia, and other tropics and subtropics. Due
to its great output potential for use as feed for livestock and smallstock, as well as its
capacity to thrive on subpar soils, it grass is highly prized.
Brachiaria grass is a great resource for small-scale farmers who might not have
access to high-quality forages because it can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a strong root
structure that makes it drought-tolerant. It is also renowned for its resistance to pests,
illnesses, and poor soils. With crude protein levels ranging from 8 to 14%, this grass has a
good nutritional value and is utilized for grazing, hay, silage, and as part of mixed pastures.
Despite being classified as a subtropical grass, Brachiaria grass has adapted to a variety of
ecological settings, including grasslands, savannahs, and woodlands. It tolerates drought
conditions and flourishes in regions with a mean annual rainfall of 800 to 2500 mm. The
grass can grow in a variety of soil conditions, from sandy to clay, and likes a pH range of 4.5
to 8.5; however, it can only withstand flooding and waterlogging for brief periods of time.
Brachiaria grass can be grown in a number of methods, including preparation of the
land, planting, and management. Brachiaria grass can be vegetatively propagated by stem
or root cuttings or by sowing seeds which are either broadcasted or sown in rows, then
lightly covered with soil. Plant stem or root cuttings can be sown on rows or seedbeds with
a 30–50 cm space between plants for vegetative reproduction. Although brachiaria grass is
renowned for its capacity to thrive in subpar soils, fertilizer application is advantageous. The
correct quantity and type of fertilizer is usually determined by a soil test. The general rule is
that a balanced fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium can be used both at
planting and during the growing season. Weed management techniques are necessary since
weeds can compete with it for nutrients and sunshine. For small areas, hand weeding or
mechanical cultivation may be utilized; however, for larger areas, selective (weed-specific)
herbicides may be required. Regular irrigation does encourage growth and yield, as was
previously indicated in relation to Brachiaria grass's tolerance of drought circumstances.
When the weather is dry, water the grass, but don't overdo it. Since brachiaria grass is
frequently fed to cattle and smallstock, effective grazing management is crucial. Before
grazing, let the grass reach a height of 20 to 30 cm, and then switch up where you graze to
give it time to recuperate.
Brachiaria grass benefits cattle and other smallstock in a number of ways. This
grass's high nutritional value and crude protein content, which ranges from 8 to 14%,
combined with its exceptional digestion will assist beef cattle and smallstock gain weight
more quickly, improving the quality of their meat carcasses, as well as dairy animals' milk
production. Brachiaria grass is a good drought feed because it can adapt to unfavourable
conditions, giving it a cost-effective forage option for cattle and smallstock producers
without the need for high-priced inputs. There is no need to be concerned about toxic
chemical build-up in your livestock and smallstock because this grass naturally resists a
variety of pests and diseases, decreasing the need for chemical interventions. Its extensive
root system enhances soil quality and lessens erosion, both of which are advantageous to
the pasture's general health. This plant is a powerhouse for our livestock and the
rangelands.
