Growth and biomass production of chicory (Cichorium intybus L) planted in intercropping system with Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mott and cut at different ages

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the growth and biomass production of chicory planted in intercropping system with Pennisetum purpureum cv. Mott (odot grass) and on different ages. Planting were carried out on plots measuring 2.5x2.5 m with 40x40 cm of sub plots for chicory. Odot grass stems were planted, 9 stems in 1 plot and chicory seeds were spread on the sub plots between the odot grass. Experimental treatments were three different cutting ages, i.e. 30, 45 and 60 days (U1, U2, and U3 respectively). Each treatment was replicated 3 times, resulting in 9 plots in total. The observed variables were plant height, fresh production, dry matter, and organic matter content. The results of the study showed that different cutting ages produced significant differences on height, fresh production, dry matter content, and organic matter content (P value <0.05). The highest production of chicory and odot grass was observed highest on cutting age of 60 days, namely 7.95 ton/ha and 15.14 ton/ha. However, the dry matter content of odot grass was not significantly different. It can be concluded that chicory planted on intercropping system with odot grass and cut on 60 days old yields the highest production.