Katambora Rhodes Grass

Detailed Description

Katambora Rhodes Grass, originally from Africa, was developed to thrive in parts of Australia where traditional Callide Rhodes grass struggled. With a remarkable hardiness, Katambora is resilient in a broad range of Australian climates, except for Tasmania and parts of Victoria. It thrives in optimal conditions with temperatures ranging from 20-37°C and annual rainfall between 600-1200mm, but its true strength lies in its adaptability to unfamiliar conditions. Capable of enduring temperatures from 5° to 50°C, it holds up well against drought, salt, and even fleeting frosts.

Unlike Callide Rhodes, Katambora demonstrates exceptional resilience when planted in more temperate areas, making it suitable for nearly the entire continent. Its deep root system, capable of reaching depths of up to 4.5 meters, allows it to access lower water tables, enhancing its drought resistance. This robust root structure, along with tall blades reaching 1-2 meters, enables the grass to withstand flooding for up to 15 days, though it is vulnerable to prolonged waterlogging.

Katambora Rhodes is particularly popular as horse feed due to its high calcium and low oxalate levels, which facilitate optimal nutrient absorption. This makes it an excellent choice for maintaining healthy livestock, especially horses.

The grass is adaptable to cooler areas of Australia, provided the temperature and rainfall recommendations are met. It can continue to grow in climates with temperature variations from 5° to 50°C.

Climate

The optimum growing temperature for Rhodes Grasses is in the range of 20°-37ºC.

Sowing Tips

Sow at a rate of 10kg/ha. Ensure the soil is well-prepared and choose a time between September and March when there is a higher probability of consecutive rain days. This product may be coated to support and enhance germination; batches may vary.

Optimal Sowing Time

We recommend sowing Katambora Rhodes Grass between September and March, depending on the climate and rainfall forecasts.

Germination

Germination occurs approximately 7 days after sowing, influenced by climate, soil preparation, and conditions. Expect full coverage by three months, with the root system maturing in about 12 months.

Water

Katambora Rhodes can manage a wider range of soil moisture conditions than other varieties, tolerating periodic waterlogging due to its vigorous root system. It requires 600mm – 1200mm of rainfall annually unless irrigated.

Fertilising

Production levels decline without a vigorous legume or the application of nitrogen fertilisers.

Mowing

Katambora Rhodes grass is very tolerant to cutting or grazing. Maintain the stand in a leafy condition by regular cutting/slashing or grazing. However, avoid overly frequent cutting or intensive grazing (approximately every 14 days) to prevent production losses and stand decline.

Grazing

Avoid grazing Rhodes grass in the first year until plants and runners are well anchored, usually after autumn rains. Ensure the plants are well established before allowing grazing.

Seed and Package Details

100% Katambora Rhodes Grass Seeds. Independently tested with a seed certificate available upon request.

Ideal Usage

Primarily used for pastures.

NOTE: Pasture Seed and Animal Health

When purchasing seeds through McKays Grass Seeds, the buyer acknowledges that McKays Grass Seeds is not liable for any animal health issues that may arise from our pasture seeds.

It is the buyer’s responsibility to contact a certified agronomist to ensure they are purchasing the correct seeds, in the correct quantities for their property, location, and animals.

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