Publication Date
1989
Description
Katambora Rhodes grass (diploid) is grown in rotation with tobacco in Zimbabwe to control Meloidogyne javanica (rootknot nematode). A 4 year ley is recommended (Martin, 1967) as the nematode can survive in bare fallow for up to 4 years. Katambora produces less herbage than Zimbabwe Giant, and is less palatable than it and other tetraploids. Potential area of use is 200 to 250 thousand ha, and annual replacement 60,000 ha. A breeding project was initiated in 1986 to combine the agronomic value of tetraploid types with the nematode resistance of Katambora. In addition to forage yield and nematode resistance seed yield and quality are essential aspects for a successful cultivar to be used in arable rotations. This is given added emphasis by a strong export market for Zimbabwe Katambora seed. Little comparative data on forage and seed yield of different Rhodes grass varieties existed in Zimbabwe. This work aimed at providing such information on Katambora and a range oftetraploids over sites and seasons as background to the breeding project.
Citation
York, P A.; Nyamandzawo, E; and Bemont, E, "Forage and Seed Yield of 9 Chloris Gayana (Rhodes Grass) Varieties at 3 Sites in Zimbabewe" (2025). IGC Proceedings (1989-2023). 35.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1989/session3b/35
Included in
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Forage and Seed Yield of 9 Chloris Gayana (Rhodes Grass) Varieties at 3 Sites in Zimbabewe
Katambora Rhodes grass (diploid) is grown in rotation with tobacco in Zimbabwe to control Meloidogyne javanica (rootknot nematode). A 4 year ley is recommended (Martin, 1967) as the nematode can survive in bare fallow for up to 4 years. Katambora produces less herbage than Zimbabwe Giant, and is less palatable than it and other tetraploids. Potential area of use is 200 to 250 thousand ha, and annual replacement 60,000 ha. A breeding project was initiated in 1986 to combine the agronomic value of tetraploid types with the nematode resistance of Katambora. In addition to forage yield and nematode resistance seed yield and quality are essential aspects for a successful cultivar to be used in arable rotations. This is given added emphasis by a strong export market for Zimbabwe Katambora seed. Little comparative data on forage and seed yield of different Rhodes grass varieties existed in Zimbabwe. This work aimed at providing such information on Katambora and a range oftetraploids over sites and seasons as background to the breeding project.
