Abstract
Forage responses to stocking rates and seasons were determined over a one-year period. The experimental design consisted of three stocking rates namely, light (2.0ha LSU-1), moderate (1.25ha LSU-1) and heavy (0.5ha LSU-1) and four seasons (autumn, winter, spring and summer) combined factorially in a Randomised Complete Block Design with three replicates per treatment. Data collected included aboveground available phytomass production, botanical composition and crude protein content. Total aboveground available phytomass production of forages at the end of the study period was significantly (P<0.05) lower in the heavy stocking rate than in the moderate and light stocking rates. Season significantly (P<0.05) reduced crude protein (CP) from 5.6% CP in summer and 7.8% CP in autumn to 4.2% CP in winter and 4.3% CP in spring. It is concluded that season exerted greater impact on sward productivity than stocking rate.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
