Improved vegetative propagation of napiergrass and pearl millet x napiergrass interspecific hybrids 158

Napiergrass and its hybrids with pearl millet are propagated vegetatively, since seed is not available in commercial quantities. Aerial tillers which arise from axillary buds along the stem make excellent propagation material because (1) many more propagules can be obtained per unit of land compared with the traditional production of stem cuttings, (2) establishment under field conditions is rapid and if the moisture regime is suitably maintained, no tiller replacement is required, (3) the propagation material can be stored for approximately one month, and (4) planting can be easily mechanized.