Cynodon nlemfuensis

Cultivation Details

The plant is found naturally in tropical areas at latitudes from about 15°N to 15°S, and from sea level to elevations of more than 2,300 metres, representing a range in average annual temperature from about 20 - 27°c. It grows in areas with a mean annual rainfall between about 600 - 3,000mm (commonly 800 - 1,200mm)^[1]. Grows best in full sun or light shade^[1]. Succeeds on a wide range of soil types from sands to heavy clays, although it grows best in moist, well-drained, lighter textured soils[415. It is adapted to soils with a pH between about 4.5 - 8, but ideally between about 5.5 - 7^[1]. When placed in a moist, firm seedbed, nodes sprout in 5 - 10 days, and a solid stand can be achieved in 3 months after planting under good conditions^[1]. Some types produce reasonable amounts of seed and have vigorous seedlings, so there is considerable potential for spread by seed. However, most produce little or no seed and can only spread vegetatively^[1]. All types have fibrous, resilient stolons that survive ploughing, stands actually being improved by cultivation. These grasses can therefore become weeds in cropping systems, although they are not as serious as Cynodon dactylon^[1].