Technological options for establishing pastures and increasing yield and nutrient value forage

Abstract

In ruminant production systems, forage grasses are the main source of feed, as they are a relatively economical low-cost feed. However, to optimize forage production, it is suggested that pastures be established with the genotypes that best adapt to the conditions present in the production units (soil, precipitation, temperature, etc.) and consider the management that should be given to the crop during establishment (fertilization, weed and pest control, etc.). Once a pasture has been established, the dynamics of forage production during the year must be known, to plan the actions that must be carried out for when there is no availability. Forage grasses are classified as a food of low nutritional value due to their high structural carbohydrate content and low protein and digestibility values; However, in many cases, it is because they are not used at the most appropriate time, where the highest yield and nutritional value are obtained; This is achieved by harvesting or grazing before there are losses due to leaf senescence. On the other hand, during the dry season, fodder is not available, so it is suggested that it be conserved through silage