Determining Best Agronomic Practices of Teff Grass in Idaho
Agronomy & Pest Management
Joseph Sagers
Extension Educator
University of Idaho
Rigby
Abstract
Teff (Eragrostis tef) is a niche forage in the state of Idaho that is increasing in popularity. Many basic agronomic practices have yet to be evaluated under Idaho growing conditions. Field experiments were conducted in Kimberly, Idaho in 2019 and 2020 to evaluate the effects of planting date, cutting height, and planting rates. Teff was planted in mid-May, early June and mid-June. Three different cutting heights were recorded at 4 inches, 6 inches, and 9 inches after the first cut. All plots were harvested the same on the second cut. Two different planting rates were evaluated: standard seeding rate (5 lbs./acre) and lower seeding rate (2.5 lbs./acre). Plots were planted as a split split plot with 4 replications.
On average, growing conditions were optimized in 2019 compared to 2020. At the lower seeding rate there was a significant difference between 1st, 2nd and 3rd plantings where yield decreases with each subsiqent planting event. Earlier planting yielded more than later plantings at the lower seeding rate. At the higher seeding rate there is no difference between the mid-May and early June planting events, but they both yielded significantly higher than the mid-June planting. It can be concluded that earlier planting improves crop yield, especially when planting at low rates. If planting is delayed, higher planting rates will help sustain yields.
Authors: Joseph Sagers
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Joseph Sagers Extension Educator, University of Idaho, Idaho, 83442