Influence of Nitrogen and Stages of Cutting on the Fodder Yield, Crude Protein and Mineral Content of Maize Varieties

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) varieties Gange 5. F2 of Ganga 5 and Deccan were grown under four levels of N (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg/ha) to study their fodder yield poten tiality, crude protein and mineral contents. The crop was harvested at four periods of growth (40, 50, 60 and 70 days after sowing) and evaluated. The experiment was con ducted under irrigated condition in a sandy clay loam soil with low, medium and high in available N. P and K status respectively. The results of the study indicated that the variety Ganga 5 registered higher green matter and crude protein yields and P and Mo contents than the rest of the varieties, while they did not differ in their crude protein and Ca contents. The crude protein, P. Ca and Mg contents decreased with the age of the crop, while dry matter content increased. It was suggested that harvesting of maize varieties for fodder purpose between fiftieth and sixtieth day after sowing, was found to be ideal for better green matter yield with higher crude protein and mineral contents. Nitrogen fertilization at 100 kg N/ha. was found to be sufficient for all the three varieties. Application of nitrogen had increased the fodder yield, crude protein and mineral contents.