Title: Agronomic comparison of dwarf and tall napiergrass in Puerto Rico
Abstract: Two tall and four dwarf napiergrasses ( Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) were evaluated at three cutting intervals (Cl) and at two locations. Overall dry matter yield (DMY) means of Merkeron and Merker (tall grasses) at the 45-, 65-, and 85-d Cl (37.5, 48.8 and 52.8 t/ha/yr, respectively) were significantly higher (P = 0.05) than those of the dwarf grasses. Average DMY of the grasses increased 15% (P = 0.05) from the 45- to the 65-d Cl. Overall mean crude protein concentration (CPC) of N75 and N127 (dwarf) at the 45- and 65-d Cl surpassed (P = 0.05) those of the tall and most of the other dwarf grasses. In most instances the crude protein yield (CPY) of Merkeron and Merker exceeded (P = 0.05) those of the dwarf grasses. Merkeron and Merker plant heights (P = 0.05) were greater at all three cutting intervals. N75 (45-d Cl), and N75 and N127 (65- and 85-d Cl) had superior (P = 0.05) mean leaf:stem ratios. No difference (P = 0.05) in terms of in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD)were observed among the six Pennisetums . The results of this study suggest that Merkeron and Merker could be recommended for use under cutting management and the dwarf grasses, especially N75 and N128, for grazing.
Publication Year: 1997
Publication Date: 1997-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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Cited By Count: 6
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