End Fodder Shortage! Grow These 3 Types of Grass for Green Fodder in Summer

grass farming

Krishi Dunia

• 08 Mar, 2025 01:08 PM IST ,
• Updated Sat, 08 Mar 2025 04:45 PM

During the summer season, livestock farmers often struggle with a shortage of green fodder, which directly impacts milk production. However, by cultivating specific types of grass in March, farmers can ensure an adequate supply of green fodder throughout the hot months. This will improve the nutritional intake of livestock and enhance their productivity. Here are three essential green fodder crops that can help overcome the summer fodder crisis.

1. Napier Grass (Elephant Grass) – A Perfect Choice for Livestock:

Napier grass, also known as Elephant Grass, is gaining popularity among livestock farmers. It is highly nutritious and plays a vital role in boosting milk production. Rich in protein and fiber, this grass contributes to the overall health of animals.

How to Cultivate Napier Grass?

• Farmers can grow this grass in almost any season.
• It is propagated through cuttings (stalks), which should be planted at a distance of 1.5 to 2 feet.
• Around 8,000 stalks are required for 1 bigha of land.
• The ideal sowing period is July-October and February-March.
• Well-drained clayey and sandy loam soils are most suitable for its cultivation.

2. Cowpea – A Fast-Growing Leguminous Fodder Crop:

For farmers looking for quick-growing green fodder in summer, cowpea is the best option. This leguminous crop is highly nutritious, easily digestible, and enhances milk production by providing essential nutrients to animals.

How to Cultivate Cowpea?

• It thrives best in loamy, sandy, and slightly black soil.
• The ideal sowing time is between March and April.
• A seed rate of 30-35 kg per hectare is sufficient.
• Sow the seeds in rows with a spacing of 25-30 cm.
• Apply 20 kg nitrogen and 60 kg phosphorus per hectare at the time of sowing.
• The crop is ready for harvesting within 85-90 days.

3. Lucerne (Rizka) – The Queen of Fodder Crops:

Lucerne, also known as Rizka, is often referred to as the "Queen of Fodder Crops." This perennial fodder plant provides a continuous supply of green fodder during the summer months. It enhances digestion and increases milk yield in livestock. The biggest advantage is that once planted, it can be harvested multiple times.

How to Cultivate Lucerne?

• It requires fertile soil with a pH value of 5.7 or above.
• Prior to sowing, deep plowing followed by 2-3 harrowings is recommended to level the field.
• Maintain a row spacing of 15-20 cm for better growth.
• Apply 25-30 kg nitrogen and 50-60 kg phosphorus per hectare.
• The first cut can be done within 55-60 days of sowing.

By cultivating Napier Grass, Cowpea, and Lucerne in March, farmers can effectively tackle the green fodder shortage in summer. This ensures balanced nutrition for livestock, improves milk production, and boosts the income of livestock farmers. If you want your animals to have sufficient green fodder during the summer, start growing these crops today!