Evaluation of different grass species for possible use in the stabilization of constructed waterways

Abstract

Digitaria eriantha subsp. pentzii (= D.decumbens), Cynodon nlemfuensis (de Hoek) and "Coastcross II" (Cynodon hybrid), which were established by means of runners and Chloris gayana. Pennisetum clandestinum and Cynodon dactylon (Pasto Rico), which were established with seed, gave the best cover during the year of establishment. The basis cover of Chloris gayana, Pennisetum clandestinum, Cynodon dactylon (Pasto Rico) and Digitaria eriantha subsp. pentzii (= D. decumbens) improved or a least stayed constant during the four years following the initial achievement of satisfactory cover. The best establishment was achieved during December while it was demonstrated that fertilization with 120 kg nitrogen + 16 kg/ha is necessary for the achievement of sufficient cover and production. Chloris gayana and Eragrostis curvula (which provided poor covering due to the tuft forming) gave the highest yield/ha.

Keywords: grass species|stabilisations|constructed waterways|constructions|basal covers|establishments|production|soils|seasons|Highveld