Evaluation of nutritive value of platable and low platable grasses at different stages of their phenological development
2012
Jehanzeb, M.
The present study conducted at National Agricultural Research Center, Islamabad during 2011 aimed to find out forage yield and nutritive value of palatable grasses (Blue panic grass, Buffel grass, Elephant grass, Tall tail grass, Rhodes grass, Setaria grass) and low palatable grasses (Cotton grass, Tanglehead grass and Johnson grass) at different stages of their phenological development. Fresh and dry matter yield was determined and samples were analyzed for proximate parameters (crude protein, Acid detergent fiber, Neutral detergent fiber, Ash content and Ether extract). The results revealed that yield and composition of grasses changed as they get maturity. Generally, dry matter yield increased significantly at full flowering stage and subsequently to maturity stage. Crude protein of grasses decreased significantly with increase in the growth stage up to maturity stage, but it did not differ significantly among the grasses. On the other hand Fibre (both ADF and NDF) increased significantly from pre-flowering to full flowering stage. The ash content showed mixed response for different grassed and stages. Taking into consideration yield and quality, full flowering stage is best stage for harvesting. Elephant and Blue panic grasses are recommended for large scale seeding/planting in Potohar region.
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