The effect of cutting management on fodder yields of a mixed crop of calliandra and napier grass.

Abstract

A field experiment was established to study the effect of cutting management on the fodder yields of a mixed crop of calliandra (Calliandra calothyrsus) and Napier grass (Pennisetum pUlpureum). Seven treatments were laid out as hedgerows in a ra'ndomized complete block design with four replications. Dry matter (DM) yields of calliandra increased significantly (P:SO.05) with cutting height. Most nutrients were not affected by this management except calcium and magnesium which declined. Dry matteryields of Napier grass declined with increasing cutting height ofcalliandrairi the mixture. No significant differences in nutrient content were observed.