cqvip:Twelve fodder species with maize (Zea mays) and millet (Eleusine coracana) were evaluated under agri-silvo-pastoral system along the Terrace risers (T-risers) of cropping land in the Agricultural Research Station Pakhribas, Nepal. Major aim of innovative agroforestry experiment designed and tested first time in Nepal was to utilize one-third land in risers of cropping terraces due to limited lands of smallholders to produce green fodders needed for livestock. Trees were planted at 1.5 m on the terrace edges and ground fodders at 30-50 cm on the risers. Trees were not allowed to grow tall to avoid shade effect on crops grown in terraces. They were felled at breast height in second year growing coppices for fodder. The results showed higher survival (76% to 100%), growth (1-3 m high) and yield of improved forages and fodder trees indicating potential for cultivation on T-risers. Dry matter (DM) of tree fodders varied 31%-49%, and ground fodders 19%-32%. DM yields ranged 3.0 t/ha (Stylosanthes guanensis) to 26.5 t/ha (Pennisetum purpureum). Combined effects of fodder species on major hill crops, maize and finger millet growth, yield and other attributes were monitored in the terraces. Most mean data were significant and at par between the treatments. Better combinations of tree and ground fodders for higher grain and stover yields (3.1 t/ha and 3.4 t/ha, respectively) of maize were Grewia optiva/Thysalonaema maxima, Desmodium intortum, Ficus auriculata/Setaria anceps, D. intortum (2.7 t/ha and 3.3 t/ha, respectively). Promising combinations for finger millet growth and yields (2-3 t/ha) were G. optiva/T. maxima, Bauhinia purpurea/S. anceps, F. semicordata/P. cetaceum. Soil analysis result showed positive impact of fodders on the risers where organic matter was highly increased after three years. Farmers and stakeholders also evaluated this technology that has been successful and recommended for similar ecological regions.
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