Effect of harvesting age of chicory (Cichorium intybus) on the pattern of planting intercropping dwarf elephant grass in the second regrowth on production and quality

Abstract

The research was conducted to evaluate the effects of harvesting age in the second regrowth of chicory (Cichorium intybus) in intercropping pattern with dwarf elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mott) on productivity and quality. Chicory seeds were spread on the interspatial land between the dwarf elephant grass on a 2.5×2.5 m2 plot, with 1×1 m2 of the distance between each dwarf elephant grass. Plants were harvested on the day- 30, 45 and 60 by defoliation 10 cm above the soil surface. Each treatment had 3 replications, totaling 9 plots. The variable measured in the study were production (dry and organic matter) and nutrient contents (dry matter, organic matter, extract ether, and crude fiber). Data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance. Significant data were evaluated on Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The results of the study showed that plants that were cut later had the highest production and nutrient contents (P<0.05). Groups harvested at later cutting ages had higher dry matter production (chicory and dwarf elephant grass). However, chicory and dwarf elephant grass on older harvesting also had higher crude fiber (13.07% and 26.87%). Crops harvested at 60 days in the second regrowth demonstrated the most improved yield.