Variability for biomass production and plant composition in Sericea lespedeza

Abstract

Sericea lespedeza [ Lespedeza cuneata (Dumont de Courset) G. Don.] is a deep-rooted legume that is well adapted to the acid, eroded soils found throughout the southeastern region of the U.S.A. A field experiment aimed at measuring biomass yield and biomass composition of 81 genotypes of sericea lespedeza harvested once every season was conducted. Results indicated substantial differences for biomass yield among sericea lespedeza genotypes. However, dry matter percentage was the same. Genotype R194-79-290-9 had the highest mean biomass yield (9.0 Mg ha −1) and, consistently, ranked among the top four during the four years that this study was conducted. Other genotypes that also exhibited a good performance over the four years were the cultivar Serala (7.8 Mg ha −1) and the breeding line 75-2-3 (7.8 Mg ha −1). Differences in yield stability over time among genotypes were observed, hence, long term performance would need to be considered in a breeding program. These results suggested that sericea lespedeza genotypes with a consistently high biomass yield can be selected. No significant differences were found among genotypes for crude protein concentration. Crude protein concentrations were about 25% lower than those previously reported. Significant differences among genotypes for neutral detergent fiber, hemicellulose, and holocellulose concentration were observed. However, no significant differences for acid detergent fiber, lignin, cellulose concentration, and holocellulose yield were measured. In summary, there is variability and potential to select for biomass yield and quality traits that are considered important for biofuel production.