Molasses (Melinis minutiflora):

• It is perennial non-leguminous fodder crop found in tropical to temperate climatic condition of Nepal.
• They have short stems, long and pointed leaves having minute hairs on both side and have aroma of molasses or sugar solution.
• They are 1.5 m long and are found to be useful in controlling soil erosion.

Climate and Altitude:

• They are grown well in tropical to temperate climatic conditons.
• It can be cultivated from Terai to Mid-Hills upto 1500 m asl.
• It can thrive well in dry conditions but cannot tolerate cold, humid climate.

Soil:

• It can be cultivated in dry, less fertile soils
• It cannot tolerate water-logging areas

Land preparation:

• Land is prepared with 2-3 ploughing and harrowing.

Seed rate:

• 5 kg/ha
• It can be best propagated from its cuttings. Total 1,00,000 cutting/ha is enough.

Sowing season:

• Jestha-Ashad
• June-July

Method of sowing:

• In case of seed sowing, land are dug about 3 inches and soil are made loose.
• Seeds are then mixed with ash or fine soils and are broadcasted on field.
• Cuttings are planted in field.

Fertilizer:

• FYM: 8 ton/ha
• NPK: 60:100:40 kg/ha

Irrigation:

• 2-3 irrigation is given depending on moisture content.

Harvesting Time:

• First cutting can be obtained after 75-90 days of sowing.

Production:

• Fodder yield: 25-35 MT/ha
• Seed yield: 250 kg/ha

Nutrient Content: