The history of Smuts finger grass with special reference to the highveld region

Abstract

The early history of Smuts finger grass and research on it in the Highveld Region is described. The value of Smuts finger grass as a pasture was first realised in the early twenties. During the thirties, research was aimed mainly at nursery evaluation work. During World War II research was discontinued for a period, but resumed on Rietondale, Rhoodeplaat in the Natal and Highveld Regions from 1950 onwards.

Keywords: grass species|histories|highveld grasslands|pastures|research|KwaZulu Natal Province|Highveld|finger grass|seed quality|germination|experiments|agriculture|Potchefstroom