Publication Date
1993
Description
The value of pasture rested in the late growing season for use as foggage during the dormant season is well known. More detailed information on the influence of nitrogen (N) fertilisation practices (level and distribution) on the availability and quality of kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestfoum Chiov.) foggage was obtained from a smallplot clipping trial incorporating 3 levels of N (100, 200 and 300 kg/ ha) and 4 distributions. Prom these results it is evident that dry matter responses were obtained up to 200 kg N/ha, whereas the crude protein responses were linear up to 300 kg N/ha applied in the late season. The characteristically good late season growth and absence of flowering stems assured good quality and abundant foggage with a high proportion of leaf material. Crude protein content in both leaf and stem components was positively correlated with the level of N fertilisation. On well-established pasture, with a history of balanced fertilisation and circulation of nutrients, the use of N might be reduced further by allowing free selection by livestock. Combining this with a follower herd, with lower requirements, to utilise residues, will further enhance 1he low input status of kikuyu foggage.
Citation
Rethman, N F.G and De Witt, C C., "Influence of Level and Distribution of Nitrogen Fertiliser on the Availability and Quality of Kikuyu foggage" (2024). IGC Proceedings (1993-2023). 7.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1993/session10/7
Included in
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Influence of Level and Distribution of Nitrogen Fertiliser on the Availability and Quality of Kikuyu foggage
The value of pasture rested in the late growing season for use as foggage during the dormant season is well known. More detailed information on the influence of nitrogen (N) fertilisation practices (level and distribution) on the availability and quality of kikuyu (Pennisetum clandestfoum Chiov.) foggage was obtained from a smallplot clipping trial incorporating 3 levels of N (100, 200 and 300 kg/ ha) and 4 distributions. Prom these results it is evident that dry matter responses were obtained up to 200 kg N/ha, whereas the crude protein responses were linear up to 300 kg N/ha applied in the late season. The characteristically good late season growth and absence of flowering stems assured good quality and abundant foggage with a high proportion of leaf material. Crude protein content in both leaf and stem components was positively correlated with the level of N fertilisation. On well-established pasture, with a history of balanced fertilisation and circulation of nutrients, the use of N might be reduced further by allowing free selection by livestock. Combining this with a follower herd, with lower requirements, to utilise residues, will further enhance 1he low input status of kikuyu foggage.
