Influence of intra-row plant spacing, phosphorus application and growth stage on the forage, seed yields and quality of phasey bean (Macroptilium lathyroides) in subhumid area of Nigeria

Abstract

Forage, seed yields and herbage chemical composition of phasey bean Macroptilium lathyroides) were investigated at 3 intra-row plant spacings (15, 30 and 45cm between plants; 50 cm between roms), 4 phosphorus (P) fertilizer application rates (O), 50, 100 and 750 kg/ha P) and 5 harvest stages (uncut control, 6, 9, 12 and 15 weeks post sowing) in two growing seasons at Shika in northern Nigeria. The least intra-row plant spacing (15cm) produced higher (p<0.01) total DM vield (1.50 t/ha) than wider spacings. The proportion of leaf was least (40 %) in the widest spacing compared with other spacings (59-62 %). The P-fertilized plots produced 58-60% more total DM vields than the unfertilized plots and total DM yields increased with advanced plant growth. The highest percentage (61-63) of leaf was recorded from 6 to 12 weeks post sowing. Nitrogen level in herbage increased (p<0.05) with increased intra-row plant spacing and P application. Phosphorus and Calcium. Levels in herbage did not respond to intra-row plant spacing but increased with P application. The Ca:P ratios at the harvest stages were between 1:1 and 6:1. The highest seed yields (198 and 188 kg/ha) were recorded respectiely in the least intra-row plant spacing and the application of 100 kg Piha. Supplementation of calves on grasses/cereal stovers with phasey bean hay in a sustainable crop livestock production systems is suggested.