They are higher yielding than their parents with finer leaves and stems. Topcut is more erect but less fine than Finecut. Establishment Rhodes grass establishes very quickly. It is best sown in January-February into a fallowed seedbed free of weeds. Avoid sowing in peak weed germinating periods such as spring.
Poorer strikes are likely when seeding into rough seedbeds.
Rhodes grass has a fluffy seed which can cause bridging problems at sowing. This is best overcome by sowing through a roller drum, grass airseeder, modified fertiliser spreader or modified combine. Alternatively, a fertiliser or cracked grain carrier or pelleted seed will assist distribution through crop airseeders and combines. Optimum sowing depth is 1 cm. Covering seed with harrows and rolling improves germination.