Erosion control, ground cover, green manure
Tef can serve as temporary ground cover. Its very fast germination and fibrous root system development make it an excellent choice for erosion control (Miller, 2010). In South Africa, it could be used as a "nurse crop", quickly covering the ground and fostering the establishment of perennial grasses sown along with it. It has been used in mixtures to protect road cuts, open-cast mine workings, stream banks, and other erodible sites (NRC, 1996).
Rotation crop and weed controller
Tef may be a valuable rotation break in perennial grass pasture or in old alfalfa stands. Its fast-growing habit makes it aggressive to weeds. In Ethiopia, tef is often used to reduce weed pressure in successive crops (Miller, 2010).