Abstract

The study was conducted to evaluate the influence of varieties and cutting intervals on the nutritive values of Desho grass under irrigation at Dambi Dollo University experimental site, Western Ethiopia. The experiment was laid out in RCBD using 3x4 factorial arrangement and three replicates. The factors studied were three Desho grass varieties (Areka /DZF #590, Kindu kosha-1 /DZF #591, Kulumsa /DZF #592) and four cutting intervals (4, 6, 8, and 10 weeks) after standardization cut (105 days). The CROPWAT 8.0 model, local climate data, forage data, and soil data were used to determine Desho grass water requirements and irrigation schedules. The chemical composition, and in vitro digestibility of the feed samples at the subsequent harvests were determined following the standard procedures. The chemical composition of Desho grass affected by the interaction of varieties with cutting intervals, except the DM, ADF, and cellulose. The ash and CP contents decreased, while NDF, ADF, and ADL of all Desho grass varieties were increased with increasing cutting intervals. Only the main effect (varieties and cutting interval) had a significant effect on IVDMD, while IVOMD and ME were affected by the interaction effects. In conclusion, both varieties and cutting intervals had significant effects on nutritive value of Desho grass. The Desho grass varieties Areka /DZF #590 and Kulumsa /DZF #592 harvested at 6 weeks intervals after the standardization cut could be better choices for high forage quality in the study area.

Keywords: Cutting interval, Desho grass, Nutritive values, Supplementary irrigation