Spear grass often grows naturally in Savanna grasslands. Seasonal fire disturbances play a vital role in clearing up an area (removing competition), for the establishment of seedlings. The twisted awns and the sharp pointed tips of the seeds assist in seed burial in the soil surface. H. contortus grows in areas of lower fertility, fixes its own nitrogen and it does not require much water. Companion grasses include Themeda triandra and Schizachyrium sanguineum. It is rarely sown, but can be propagated from seeds or stem cutting.

When cultivated, store fresh seeds for 6–12 months before sowing, as they are still dormant. Seed cleaning is difficult because of the presence of the awn and callus. Sow seed in no deeper than 1 cm, in a seedbed. The most favorable temperature for seed germination ranges between 30 and 35°C. The plant should be planted in a sunny position and on well-drained soils. It does not require much additional fertilizers, but can be fed with small applications of foliar feeds.

Vegetatively, use splits of mature plants. Adequate levels of temperature and soil moisture initiates growth, and is facilitated by significant rainfall.