Napier Grass Farming in Kenya (2025 Guide): Super Napier, Pakchong, Yield, Price & Where to Buy Seeds

Q: What is the best Napier grass variety for dairy cows?

The best high-yield varieties for dairy cows are Super Napier Pakchong 1, Australian Red Napier, Juncao, and Indonesian Smart Napier. These varieties have higher protein content (around 16%–25%), produce more biomass, and regrow faster than traditional Napier, making them ideal for boosting milk production.

Q: How long does Napier grass take to grow?

Napier grass takes about 75–90 days to reach the first harvest after planting, depending on the variety, soil fertility, and water availability. Once established, it regrows quickly and can be harvested every 45–60 days throughout the year under good management.

Q: How many cows can one acre of Napier grass feed?

One acre of well-managed Super Napier grass can feed up to 10–15 dairy cows per year because of its high biomass yield and good protein content. Traditional Napier varieties normally support about 6–8 cows per acre due to lower yields and less nutritive value.

Q: What is the spacing for Super Napier grass?

The recommended spacing for Super Napier grass is 3 feet by 3 feet between plants. This spacing allows enough room for tillering, better air circulation, strong root development, and maximum fodder yield per plant and per acre.

Q: Is Super Napier grass better than ordinary Napier?

Yes. Super Napier grass is generally better than ordinary Napier because it has higher crude protein (around 16%–18%), faster regrowth, thicker stems, and higher biomass yield. These advantages translate into better animal performance and higher milk production when properly managed.

Q: How often should Napier grass be harvested?

Napier grass should ideally be harvested every 45–60 days after the first cut. Harvesting within this window maintains high protein levels, keeps the stems tender, and prevents the grass from becoming too fibrous and less palatable to livestock.

Q: Does Napier grass require fertilizer?

Yes. Napier grass responds very well to organic manure and nitrogen-based fertilizers. Farmers should apply well-decomposed farmyard manure during planting and top-dress with CAN or urea after each harvest to support vigorous regrowth and maintain high yield and protein content.

Q: Where can I buy Napier grass seeds or cuttings in Kenya?

In Kenya, you can buy Napier grass cuttings and planting material from suppliers such as Maximum Milk Production Solutions Africa (MMPS Africa), Larry’s Fodder Farm in Kericho, DairyVerse Kenya, FMK (Farmers Market Kenya), and other verified county-based fodder sellers and agrovets. Most improved Napier varieties are sold as cuttings or splits rather than conventional seed.

Q: Can Napier grass grow in dry areas?

Napier grass can grow in semi-arid areas, but its performance is much better where there is sufficient rainfall or supplemental irrigation. During establishment, Napier grass needs consistent moisture for good rooting. In very dry zones, farmers should plan for irrigation, water harvesting, or drought-tolerant varieties combined with good soil fertility management.

Q: What are the disadvantages of Super Napier grass?

Disadvantages of Super Napier grass include high water and nutrient requirements, the need for frequent manure or fertilizer, and more labour for cutting and transporting the tall, bulky stems. If not harvested every 45–60 days, Super Napier becomes fibrous and less palatable. Transporting bulky planting material can also be costly for farmers who live far from suppliers.

BeyondForest
1 day ago
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Three bags filled with neatly arranged Australian Red Napier on a brown floor. The bags are open, revealing a mix of purple and brown stalks.

Image of Australian Red Napier F1 by Maximum Milk Production Solution Africa

By the end of this section you will have learnt

0.)About Napier Grass

1.)Super Napier Grass Price Per Kg in Kenya

2.)All Napier Grass Varieties in Kenya (2025 Update)

3.)Napier Grass Yield Per Acre (All Varieties Compared)

4.)Where to Buy Napier Grass Seeds in Kenya

5.)How to Plant Pakchong Napier Grass (Step-by-Step)

6.)Napier Grass Growth Timeline

7.)How Many Cows Can One Acre of Napier Grass Feed

8.)Disadvantages of Super Napier Grass

9.)FAQ – Napier Grass Farming in Kenya

About Napier Grass

Mix Napier with Desmodium or Super K Vines for a high-protein fodder system that boosts milk yield and lowers feed costs.

Close-up of Super Napier Pakchong

Napier grass, also known as Elephant Grass, is one of the most important fodder crops used by livestock farmers across Kenya and East Africa. It is a fast-growing, high-yielding perennial grass that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, making it ideal for dairy and beef farming. Napier grass is primarily cultivated for its ability to produce large amounts of highly digestible biomass rich in energy, fiber, and protein—crucial for boosting milk production and animal growth.

Farmers prefer Napier because it can be harvested multiple times a year, is easy to propagate through cuttings, and performs well even on small parcels of land.

Tall, multicolored Australian Red Napier leaves in shades of green, purple, and red fill the frame, creating a vibrant, tropical backdrop.

Image of Australian Red Napier

Modern improved varieties such as Super Napier (Pakchong 1 ), Australian Red Napier, Juncao, and Indonesian Smart Napier have transformed fodder production due to their higher crude protein levels, faster regrowth, and better drought tolerance compared to traditional Napier.

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Tall green Guatemala grass with broad leaves grow densely in a tropical setting. Bright and lush, the scene conveys a vibrant, natural atmosphere.

Image of Guatemala Grass

Napier Grass Prices Per Cutting (Kenya 2025)

Close-up of green super Napier Pakchong piled together, displaying a fresh, vibrant color and smooth texture.

Image of Super Napier Pakchong cuttings

Variety	Price Per Cutting
Super Napier (Pakchong 1)	7Ksh per cutting
Australian Red Purple Napier	40Ksh per cutting (bulk prices lower)
Juncao Napier Grass	20Ksh per cutting
Indonesian Smart Napier	10Ksh–20Ksh per split
Guatemala Grass	20Ksh per split
Super K Vines	20Ksh
Desmodium Splits	10Ksh per split
Brachiaria Grass Splits	10Ksh per split

All Napier Grass Varieties in Kenya (2025 Update)

Super Napier Pakchong 1 (Thailand) – “King of Napier”

Dense green Super Napier Pakchong in a field, with vibrant, long blades, set against a lightly clouded sky, creating a lush and fresh atmosphere.

Protein: 16%–18%

Yield: 180–200 tons per acre per year

Feeds 15 dairy cows per acre

First harvest: 75–90 days

Subsequent cuts: 45–60 days

Best for silage

Australian Red Napier (Purple Napier)

Tall Australian Red Napier with red-tinged leaves under a blue sky and clouds, beside a red soil path, evoke a lush, tropical feel.

Protein: 18.26% – 25%

Height: 11 ft

Yield: 50–55 tons per harvest

Harvest frequency: 7–8 times per year

Drought tolerant

Best for cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, rabbits

Indonesian Smart Napier (Dwarf Napier)

Indonesian Smart Napier with roots are laid in a red container. The leaves are long and narrow, creating a fresh and natural atmosphere.

Image of Indonesian Smart Napier with roots are laid in a red container.

Protein: 20%–25%

First harvest: 80–90 days

Subsequent harvests: 45–60 days

Yield: 60–70 tons per harvest

Smooth dark-green leaves

Best for goats, sheep, poultry, pigs

Juncao Napier Grass (Chinese Magic Grass)

Tall green Juncao Napier Grass under blue sky. The dense leaves and stems create a lush, vibrant scene.

Crude Protein of up to 18%

Fast growing

Disease resistant

Produces slightly more than 200 tons per acre per year.

Suitable for Silage Making

Super K Vines (Imported from Israel)

Dense cluster Super K Vines covering the ground. The scene is lush with various shades of green, creating a fresh, natural ambiance.

Protein: 22%–30%

Harvest: 90 days

Very vegetative, palatable

No tubers

High milk production

Guatemala Grass

Lush green plant with long, narrow leaves in sunlight. Background of grass and soil, creating a vibrant, natural garden setting.

Image of Guatemala Grass

Highly palatable

High dry matter yield

Great for dairy cows

Brachiaria Grass (Mulato II)

Lush green Bracharia grass grows densely, with a dirt path winding through it. The setting appears natural and vibrant.

Image of Lush green Bracharia grass growing densely

Best for grazing

Soil-improving

High protein for beef & dairy

Desmodium (Ideal Fodder Legume)

Dense green Desmodium plants with some buds in a lush garden setting. The leaves are vibrant and create a fresh, natural atmosphere.

Adds nitrogen to soil

High protein

Excellent for dairy farming

Napier Grass Yield Per Acre (All Varieties Compared)

Variety	Yield
Super Napier Pakchong	180–200 tons/year
Australian Red Napier	50–55 tons/harvest
Indonesian Smart Napier	60–70 tons/harvest
Juncao	High vegetative yield
Guatemala Grass	Medium-high
Brachiaria	Moderate

Where to Buy Napier Grass Seeds in Kenya

MMPS Africa	Thika	0717 782 930
Larry’s Fodder Farm	Kericho County	0721 982 950
DairyVerse Kenya	Online Fodder Shop	0722 228 190

How to Plant Pakchong Napier Grass (Step-by-Step)

Rows of young Napier Grass in dark, freshly tilled soil. Lush greenery lines the background. Overcast lighting creates a calm atmosphere.

Image of Purple napier aka Australian Red Napier by Waichanguru Muhoya

1. Choose the Right Variety

Select high-yield varieties such as Super Napier (Pakchong 1), Australian Red Napier, Juncao, or Smart Napier.
Choose varieties suitable for your climate and livestock needs.

2. Prepare the Land Properly

Plough the land deeply to loosen the soil.
Remove weeds, stones, and debris.
Add well-decomposed manure (1–2 buckets per hole or per metre).
Make ridges or rows depending on your spacing.

3. Prepare Planting Materials

Use healthy cuttings with 2–3 nodes each.
Avoid old, weak, or diseased stems.
Keep planting material moist to avoid drying.

4. Correct Spacing Is Key

Super Napier / Pakchong 1: 3 ft × 3 ft spacing.
Australian Red Napier: 2.5 ft × 2.5 ft.
Dwarf/Smart Napier: 2 ft × 2 ft.
Wide spacing improves air circulation and increases yield per plant.

5. Plant the Cuttings Properly

Dig holes 15–20 cm deep.
Place the cutting at an angle or vertically with at least one node buried.
Cover lightly with soil and press firmly.
Apply manure or DAP for strong root development.

6. Watering Requirements

Water immediately after planting.
In dry areas, irrigate twice a week during establishment.
Maintain consistent moisture for the first 4–6 weeks.

7. Weeding & Early Management

Weed at least twice before the first harvest.
Mulch to reduce evaporation and suppress weeds.
Apply additional manure every 2–3 months.

8. Fertilizer & Manure Application

Apply farmyard manure or compost regularly.
Add CAN or urea after every harvest to boost regrowth.
Napier responds well to nitrogen.

9. Pest & Disease Control

Watch for Napier head smut in traditional varieties.
Improved varieties like Super Napier and Juncao are more resistant.
Remove and burn infected plants if necessary.

10. Harvesting Timeline

First harvest: 75–90 days after planting (depending on variety).
Subsequent harvests: every 45–60 days.
Cut at 3–4 feet height for maximum protein and palatability.

Napier Grass Growth Timeline

Dense cluster of tall, purple sugarcane plants in a field, surrounded by green foliage and earth. No visible text or people.

Napier grass grows rapidly once established, making it one of the most reliable fodder crops for Kenyan farmers. After planting, the grass takes about 75–90 days to reach its first harvest, depending on the variety and rainfall or irrigation levels. Improved varieties such as Super Napier Pakchong, Juncao, and Australian Red Napier often mature faster due to better genetics. After the first cut, Napier regrows quickly and can be harvested every 45–60 days throughout the year. Under good management—adequate manure, watering, and timely weeding—Napier grass can achieve 6–8 harvests annually, ensuring consistent fodder production.

How Many Cows Can One Acre of Napier Grass Feed

Feeding capacity also depends on manure application, watering, spacing, and cutting intervals.

One acre of well-managed Napier grass can feed between 10–15 dairy cows, depending on the variety planted and the quality of management. High-yield varieties like Super Napier Pakchong and Juncao can produce up to 180–200 tons of fodder per acre per year, enough to sustain up to 15 cows when harvested regularly. Traditional Napier varieties typically support 6–8 cows due to lower protein and biomass yield.

Disadvantages of Super Napier Grass

High Water Demand: Requires consistent moisture during establishment for strong rooting and rapid growth.
Nutrient Intensive: Needs regular manure or nitrogen fertilizer to maintain high protein and biomass yield.
Labour Intensive Harvesting: Grows very tall and thick, making cutting and transporting more labour-demanding.

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Becomes Fibrous if Overgrown: If not harvested every 45–60 days, stems harden and reduce palatability.
Transport Costs for Cuttings: Planting material is bulky, making delivery expensive for farmers far from suppliers.
Risk of Poor Establishment in Dry Areas: Without irrigation or rainfall, initial growth can be slow.
Requires Wide Spacing: Needs 3 ft × 3 ft spacing, meaning more land preparation work.

Napier Grass Farming in Kenya FAQ

What is the best Napier grass variety for dairy cows?

The best high-yield varieties are Super Napier Pakchong 1, Australian Red Napier, Juncao, and Indonesian Smart Napier. They have higher protein content (16%–25%) and regrow faster than traditional Napier.

How long does Napier grass take to grow?

Napier grass takes 75–90 days for the first harvest. After establishment, it can be harvested every 45–60 days throughout the year.

Lush green desmodium plants with a wooden stake displaying a sign reading "EASEED Desmodium Africa's Best" in the foreground.

How many cows can one acre of Napier grass feed?

One acre of Super Napier can feed up to 15 dairy cows per year due to its high biomass yield. Traditional Napier usually feeds 6–8 cows per acre.

What is the spacing for Super Napier grass?

The recommended spacing is 3 ft × 3 ft to allow proper tillering, air circulation, and maximum yields.

Is Super Napier grass better than ordinary Napier?

Yes. Super Napier offers higher protein (16–18%), faster regrowth, bigger stems, higher biomass, and greater milk-boosting properties.

Lush green Bracharia grass under sunlight, densely covering the ground. Bright and vibrant setting with no visible text or patterns.

How often should Napier grass be harvested?

Harvest every 45–60 days. Leaving it too long makes it fibrous and less nutritious.

Does Napier grass require fertilizer?

Yes. Napier responds very well to manure and nitrogen. Apply organic manure during planting and CAN/Urea after each harvest.

Where can I buy Napier grass seeds or cuttings in Kenya?

You can buy from MMPS Africa, Larry’s Fodder Farm (Kericho), DairyVerse Kenya, FMK Marketplace, and verified county-based sellers.

Can Napier grass grow in dry areas?

Napier can survive in semi-arid zones but improved varieties perform better with irrigation or regular rainfall, especially during establishment.

What are the disadvantages of Super Napier grass?

It requires more water, more manure, wide spacing, regular cutting, and labour for harvesting. It can also become fibrous if not cut on time.