Forage mass production and grazing loss of sorghum hybrid in response to the density of the sowing and the spacing between planting lines

Abstract

-The objective of this experiment was to evaluate dry matter yield and loss of grazing due to animal trampling in response to sowing density and spacing between lines in the planting. Sorghum hybrid 1P400 was submitted to six treatments, composed of three sowing density combinations (12; 16 and 20 kg/ha of seeds) and two spacing between lines (0.40 and 0.80 m). Sorghum hybrid 1P400 was sowed in two seasons, at the end of spring (December 3 rd , 2005) and the other at the end of summer (March 20 th , 2006). Cultivation strategies influenced plant population in the two experimental seasons. Diameter of the stem in season 1 decreased with density increase, whereas in the second season, interaction between sowing density and spacing was significant. In the first season, 0.40-m spacing promoted greater losses due to grazing stepping, that is, 891 kg/ha of DM, whereas in the second season there was no statistical difference. There was no significant difference in forage dry matter yield in sowing densities among the two studied seasons. Dry mater production of sorghum hybrids 1P400 did not increase with the increase of the sowing density in the two sowing seasons, therefore it is recommended 12 kg/ha of seeds for the sowing. Sorghum IP400 cultivated in 0.80-m spacing resulted in lower forage loss caused by grazing bovine trampling.

<b>Nutritional characteristics of sorghum hybrids hay (<i>sorghum sudanense</i> x <i>sorghum bicolor</i>)

“…The combination of these factors is essential for hybrids to express their potential, because the occurrence of water deficit negatively influences the production of forage dry matter in order to achieve productivity and avoid losses due to animal trampling when used for grazing (Simili et al, 2011). In Brazil, hybrids between sorghum and Sudan grass have been widely used in the state of Rio Grande do Sul for the formation of temporary summer pastures, when there are high temperatures and low rainfall.…”

Performance and phenotypic selection of sorghum genotypes for cutting and grazing in two planting seasons

“…However, it is necessary to develop hybrids that have fast growth, high leaf supply and high productivity. Plant height is influenced by factors such as hybrid characteristics, sowing rate and spacing (Simili et al 2011), cutting system (Venuto & Kindiger 2008) and fertilization used (Astigarraga et al 2014). When hybrids are used for animal feeding it is essential to start grazing at lower height to ensure pasture quality.…”

Nutritive Value of Hay From Sorghum-Sudangrass Hybrids (Sorghum Sudanense vs. Sorghum Bicolor) / Valor Nutritivo Do Feno De Híbridos De Sorgo Com Capim-Sudão (Sorghum Sudanense vs. Sorghum Bicolor)

“…The nutritive value of sorghum grown for cutting and grazing does not vary considerably among genotypes in the market, but the productivity depends on adequate climatic conditions and soil fertility. Improvements in productivity are found when sorghum is harvested at more advanced phenological stages (SIMILI et al, 2011).…”