Teff: An Alternative Crop for Oklahoma

Teff: An Alternative Crop for Oklahoma

Summary

Two studies were conducted in 2009 at various sites to evaluate performance of teff varieties and determine fertilizer recommendations. Experiments were implemented as planned and measurements were collected. However, excessive heat and heavy rain affected growth and yield of teff in both studies. Teff grain yield ranged from 0.8 to 1.5 t ha-1 when grown in the field. No conclusive fertilizer rates were determined. The experiments will continue in 2010.

Objectives/Performance Targets

We hypothesized that identifying well performing teff varieties with appropriate fertility package for Oklahoma will enhance farm profitability and allow crop diversification in Oklahoma subsequently contributing to sustainability. We hypothesize that it is possible to reduce the risk of farming by increasing crop options specifically since teff is a dual purpose crop, fast in growth, and tolerant to moisture stress. The goal of this study was to add diversity of crops and create economic opportunities by adding teff in the cropping system for small farmers in Oklahoma and neighboring states. The specific objectives were to: 1. evaluate the adaptation, suitability and grain and forage yield of teff varieties, 2. develop nutrient requirement of selected teff varieties, and 3. demonstrate varieties and management package to farmers.

Accomplishments/Milestones

Four teff varieties were evaluated at Hennessey and Summers and six varieties at Stillwater, OK. Data were collected as planned. Teff varieties were harvested in mid-September in 2009. In 2009, DZ-01-99 had the highest total forage yield for two- cut system. Varieties DZ-Cr-387, Quick-E and Tiffany (The latter two known hay cultivar in the US) yielded significantly lower forage than DZ-01-99. Tiffany produced significantly lower forage yield than DZ-01-1681. Forage yield at first and second cut averaged 2.4 and 8.6 t ha-1. For four of the six varieties, the two-cut system produced more forage yield than one-cut system. Teff grain protein ranged 14 to 15.3%. Iron content was the only significant quality parameter among unwashed/washed or red/white varieties. Red or brown varieties had higher Fe than white varieties. Washed teff grain (white and red) had lower Fe content than unwashed teff grain. Teff grain had the highest Ca, Fe, Mg, Zn and protein content vis-à-vis winter wheat, corn and grain sorghum.

The soil fertility study was conducted at Hennessey and Summers in 2009. In 2009, treatments include a check (no fertilizer), four N levels (0, 45, 67 and 90 kg ha-1) each at fixed levels of 25 kg ha-1 P2O5 and K2O, topdress N (45 kg N ha-1), only P (50 kg P2O5 ha-1) and K (69 kg K2O ha-1). In 2010, two additional N rates, 23 and 112 kg N ha-1 were added. Measurements included preplant soil N, P, K, plant height, days to flowering, percent lodging, forage and grain yields, and maturity date. The two-site study in 2009 showed that quick-E forage and grain yields and yield components were not significantly affected by N, P and K rates. The only exception is P rate on forage yield at Summers where forage yield increased with P rate. Grain and forage yields were not also affected by soil type x fertilizer rate interaction. Average forage yield was 7.0 and 6.6 t ha-1 at Hennessey and Summers, respectively. Grain yield at Hennessey and Summers was 753 and 638 kg ha-1 and was significantly different (p<0.05). At Hennessey, although not significant, grain yield had had a quadratic trend; yield peaked at 67 kg N ha-1. Application of 45 kg ha-1 topdress only resulted in 0.7 t ha-1 and 386 kg ha-1 more grain and forage yields, respectively compared with a 45 kg ha-1 split applied (preplant and topdress) at Hennessey in 2009.

A half day workshop accompanied by a field day was conducted in August. A pamphlet was produced. A documentary about teff was aired on SUNUPTV. A presnetation was delivered at professional socoety meeting. Three low-income producers meetins were conducted.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

The results of the study could lead to more participation of small-scale farmers in teff production in Oklahoma and elsewhere. So far, several producers showed interest in using the crop as a hay crop for sheep and horse. At least one producer is considering processing and packaging of teff. More importantly, the project attracted more than dozen entrepreneurs, producers and middle-men who are eager to see more production of teff in Oklahoma to meet their ever increasing teff grain feedstock for flour. At least two entrepreneurs were interested in growing teff in large scale to provide health food industry with teff grain. Although niche market, there is considerable demand for teff grain in North America. This project also opened an opportunity to interact and share information in the High Plains of the US.

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