Farmers in Kiambu County have been urged to feed their livestock on napier grass as it is nutritious and less expensive.
Speaking Tuesday in his office, Kiambu sub-county livestock officer James Kariuki, said napier grass is fast maturing when planted inform of seedlings than cuttings which need more attention and preparation during planting.
He added that it does requires less nutrients and water as it is a drought resistant crop hence can grow anywhere even in an uncultivated land.
“Farmers can make use of their idle plots of land instead of leaving them like that since they can earn some money from selling the grass which goes for a Sh1,000 per pick-up,” said Kariuki.
He said napier grass contains all the nutrients and is less expensive than concentrate feeds.
He further added that it’s highly nutritious when it’s green since it still contains all the nutrients from the soil.
He said it should not be too canny or hairy as it is hard for the animal to chew.
He said napier grass contains forage which is rich in protein that is essential in milk formation.
He said it can be stored in silos during the wet months and can be fed to the animals during the dry season but it should not be too dry.