Abstract
This experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of the row spacing between corn plants on silage quality. Different spacing between corn rows (40, 60, and 80 cm) was used, but the population of plants was maintained around 65,000/ha in all treatments. Analysis of variance was carried out and means were compared by Tukey's test at 5% of probability. A reduction in row spacing provided better spatial distribution of plants, but did not alter morphological composition or dry matter production. The corn with most equidistant spatial distribution (lowest row spacing) showed an increase in lignin concentration, neutral detergent fiber, and total carbohydrates, and showed a decrease in total digestible nutrients when compared with 80 cm row spacing. However, the organic digestibility matter was not affected by the treatments. The content and quality of protein were higher for 80 cm row spacing compared with the other levels; also, protein content was reduced as the spacing between rows became smaller. The only mineral affected was calcium, which had the lowest value at higher levels of spacing. Although differences were detected for many variables, the most appropriate spacing between rows should also take into account economic and practical aspects when choosing the best plant arrangement.
Highlights
Genetic advances in selection of corn genotypes with a higher yield potential, shorter cycle, and better architecture have required new studies on plant arrangements
The corn plants grown in different spatial arrangements produced on average 15.70 kg/ha dry matter (DM), with no significant difference between treatments
The morphological composition of the corn plant can define the quality of silage
Summary
Genetic advances in selection of corn genotypes with a higher yield potential, shorter cycle, and better architecture have required new studies on plant arrangements. Some studies have demonstrated the possibility of higher grain and forage yield with changes in row spacing and plant density (Argenta et al, 2001; Cox and Cherney, 2001; Cox et al, 2006). This response has been attributed to the higher efficiency of solar radiation interception when adequate plant arrangements are used (Argenta et al, 2001). A large number of studies can be found relating to the effect of plant arrangement on forage and grain yield, few studies have evaluated the changes in chemical composition of silages in relation to plant arrangement
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