Effects of Utilization Systems, Planting Methods and Type of Grass on Pasture Production of Centro and Hamata Mixed with Ruzi and Para on a Small Dairy Farm Conditions 2. Dry Matter Yield

Abstract

The effect of utilization systems, planting methods and type of grasses on pasture production of centro and hamata mixed with ruzi and para we:e assessed in a field trial. Total dry matter yield and its components were measured. The results showed that there were no significantly difference between cutting and grazing on total dry matter yields and botanical composition. However, centro tended to decline more rapidly under grazing than cutting. All growth parameters recorded were markedly reduced or increased depending on the species when the growing patterns were considered. Both ruzi and para dry matter yield and botanical composition were increased with mixed planting. This effect also occurred with centro except the botanical composition with mixed and stripped planting produced similar results. On the other hand strip planting improved dry matter yield and botanical composition of hamata better than mixed planting. Weed percentage was also increased under strip sowing. Total dry matter yield (1-6 harvests) was higher under mixed than strip. The differences in yield were largely due to grass and centro components. Both centro and hamata can grow well with ruzi and para.