Evaluation of nutritive value of seven kenaf (hibiscus cannabinus l.) varieties harvested depending on stubble height

Anguo, C.; Defang, L.; Jianjun, L.; Siqi, H.; Bai,J.; Huijuan, T.

Evaluation of nutritive value of seven kenaf (hibiscus cannabinus l.) varieties harvested depending on stubble height

2017

Protein feed shortage is one of the most important factors that limit the development of animal husbandry in China. Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) can be used as a high-quality protein feed for livestock. The aims of this study were to evaluate the yield and quality characters of seven kenaf varieties harvested on the basis of stubble height and to screen the varieties with high nutritive value. A reasonable stubble height was selected, and then kenaf varieties were cut leaving the selected stubble height and their nutritive value was determined. The results showed that stubble height of 90 cm was the most appropriate for improving the biomass content and nutritive value of kenaf. The dry matter yield of the whole plants, crude protein content and crude fibre content of the seven kenaf varieties ranged from 15,359.31 kg/ha to 18,502.18 kg/ha, 8.99% to 16.23% and 16.71% to 37.43%, respectively. The nutritive value of the seven kenaf varieties was the same for the first two harvests, but was slightly different for the third harvest due to the cold climate during this harvest time. Variety SZHP35 had the highest nutritive value, dry matter yield (18,502.18 kg/ha) and crude protein yield content (2,027 kg/ha), while variety 4A-4B had higher leaf proportion and yield and significantly higher crude protein content (P<0.05) than that of other varieties. Correspondence analysis suggested that 4A-4B was closely related to leaf yield and crude protein content, while SZHP35 was closely related to high yield. Our findings suggested that4A-4B and SZHP35 could be used as forage material in China. .

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