Theme 06: Abiotic Constraints to Forage Production from Grasslands
Description
The aim of the present study was to asses the influence of the frequency of defoliation and density of sowing on yield and nutritive value of Coursetia ferruginea. Three defoliation frequencies (6, 8 and 10 weeks) and three densities of planting (1 x 1 m, 1 x 1.5 m and 1 x 2 m) were evaluated. A randomized block design, in a split plot arrangement and four repetitions, was used. Frequency of defoliation has a strong significant (P< 0.01) effect on dry matter (DM) yield (13.6, 18.1 and 27.8 g DM/plant for 6, 8 and 10-week defoliation frequencies), plant height (63.5, 76.6 and 101.2 cm) and plant survival (71, 74 and 86%). Nutritive value was significantly (P< 0.05) affected by the frequency of defoliation. Mineral content was reduced as the defoliation interval increased. Density of planting did not affect (P> 0.05) any of the variables. It is concluded that, C. ferruginea is a forage shrub with potential to improve animal feed quality, but it does not stand frequent defoliation.
Included in
Effect of Defoliation Frequency and Planting Density on Yield and Nutritive Value of Coursetia ferruginea (HBK) Lavin
The aim of the present study was to asses the influence of the frequency of defoliation and density of sowing on yield and nutritive value of Coursetia ferruginea. Three defoliation frequencies (6, 8 and 10 weeks) and three densities of planting (1 x 1 m, 1 x 1.5 m and 1 x 2 m) were evaluated. A randomized block design, in a split plot arrangement and four repetitions, was used. Frequency of defoliation has a strong significant (P< 0.01) effect on dry matter (DM) yield (13.6, 18.1 and 27.8 g DM/plant for 6, 8 and 10-week defoliation frequencies), plant height (63.5, 76.6 and 101.2 cm) and plant survival (71, 74 and 86%). Nutritive value was significantly (P< 0.05) affected by the frequency of defoliation. Mineral content was reduced as the defoliation interval increased. Density of planting did not affect (P> 0.05) any of the variables. It is concluded that, C. ferruginea is a forage shrub with potential to improve animal feed quality, but it does not stand frequent defoliation.
