Growing Teff as Dual Purpose Alternative Crop in Oklahoma.

Teff [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] is an annual dual purpose grass that can be used as food for human consumption and feed for horses and ruminants. As food,  teff has unique qualities in that it contains high level of several minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and thiamine . It is an excellent source of essential amino acids, especially lysine, the amino acid that is most often deficient in common grain foods including wheat and millet. Additionally it is low in gluten and it can be an important component of diet for gluten intolerant people.  Teff is known to few in Oklahoma. We conducted series of research activities to determine yield level, planting date, and nutrient requirements in teff for Oklahoma. As unique crop that can thrive well in moisture extremes, the crop has great potential. Teff can yield 1.6-2.3 tons/ha grain and 3-4 tons/ha forage in Oklahoma. The crop should be planted in May or June in the presence of adequate soil moisture when temperature is above 65 F permanently. Adequate nitrogen supply, about 50-56 kg/ha is needed for grain production while forage production requires more for multiple cuts.