Nutritional breakdown: eragrostis vs teff

Every Pretoria stable debates the same question: should we feed eragrostis or teff? Both grasses thrive in Gauteng, yet they serve different metabolic needs. Eragrostis is the dependable all-rounder thanks to slightly higher protein and a comfortable fibre profile. Teff, meanwhile, suits horses that require very low sugars or owners chasing competition-weight control. Understanding the numbers keeps your ration deliberate and season-proof.

We test both grasses after every cutting. The table below summarises the November 2025 laboratory results. While figures vary by farm, the ratios remain similar.

Eragrostis brings more protein, which supports topline on horses in moderate work without relying on expensive concentrates. The neutral detergent fibre level still encourages prolonged chewing, but it is not so high that horses lose interest. Teff, despite its lower protein, has a dense fibre mat that slows intake significantly. It is ideal for metabolic horses, ponies prone to laminitis, or cattle needing roughage while on lush grazing.

Another differentiator is palatability. Our clients note that eragrostis smells sweeter and maintains its green-gold colour longer, especially when stored under cover. Teff tends to bleach quickly and can feel brittle during winter, which some horses reject. However, when weight control is the priority, that brittleness is an advantage because it reduces calorie density while still satisfying the horse’s need to chew.

A blended approach works well. Offer eragrostis as the staple to keep condition steady, then mix in teff nets for easy keepers or those on stall rest. The combination leverages both grasses’ strengths while making sure the forage cart remains proudly Pretoria-grown. Remember to introduce any change gradually over 10-14 days, and monitor droppings plus attitude to make sure gut microbes adapt smoothly.

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