Intercropping effect of canavalia ensiformis on regrowth ability and in-vitro gas production of Panicum maximum cv T58.

摘要

The effect of legume intercrop on regrowth ability and nutritive value via in vitro gas production of guinea grass was evaluated in a 2x2 factorial arrangement. Panicum maximum cv T 58 grass with Canavalia ensiformis intercrop was studied for six weeks. The tiller height, tiller numbers, regrowth percentage were recorded on weekly basis. The sward was harvested at the end of six weeks. Samples were taken, oven dried and dry matter yield determined. Proximate composition of the grasses was then carried out. The soil condition was improved after treatment. The stem had the least crude protein content than the leaves (5.43%). In vitro gas production carried out showed that methane gas production was higher in the stem fraction than in the leaves. This suggests that leave utilization will be higher when fed to ruminants. Intercropping Canavalia ensiformis with Panicum maximum enhanced the regrowth ability and in vitro gas production thereby reducing the necessity for chemical fertilizer.