Bengal Napier

Bengal Napier

Bengal Napier / Purple Stem Napier Grass – High Yield Fodder Crop for Dairy Farming

Bengal Napier, also known as Purple Stem Napier Grass, is a highly productive and nutritious green fodder crop widely preferred by dairy farmers. Due to its superior yield, good palatability, and long crop life, it is considered an excellent fodder option for cattle and buffaloes.

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1. Stem Color

Bengal Napier has a dark purple to reddish-colored stem, which clearly distinguishes it from other Napier grass varieties.
This unique color is often associated with higher nutritional value, making it more beneficial for dairy animals.

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2. Yield Potential

With proper management, irrigation, and fertilization, Bengal Napier can produce:

👉 300–400 tons of green fodder per acre

This high yield makes it a cost-effective fodder crop for commercial dairy farming.

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3. Protein Content

Bengal Napier contains approximately:

👉 11–12% crude protein

This protein level is ideal for lactating animals, helping to improve milk yield and overall animal health.

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4. Palatability (Animal Preference)

This variety is:

• Highly palatable

• Juicy and soft

• Easily digestible

Because of its taste and nutrition, cattle consume it readily, resulting in minimal fodder wastage.

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5. Method of Cultivation

Planting Material

Bengal Napier is propagated using stem cuttings (nodes / setts).

Spacing

• Row to row distance: 2 feet

• Plant to plant distance: 1.5 feet

Proper spacing ensures better growth, easier harvesting, and higher fodder yield.

Nutrient & Water Management

Regular fertilizer application and timely irrigation significantly enhance fodder production.

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6. Harvesting Schedule

• First harvest: After 70–80 days of planting

• Subsequent harvests: Every 45–50 days

Regular harvesting helps maintain soft fodder and high protein content.

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Benefits of Bengal Napier Grass

✔ Acts as a natural milk booster
✔ Crop life of 3–4 years
✔ Grows well even in summer season
✔ Requires comparatively less irrigation
✔ Ensures year-round green fodder availability

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Price & Availability

👉 500 nodes (cuttings) are available for ₹1500

This quantity is suitable for planting a significant area under fodder cultivation.