KARI Napier Grass Desmodium EEAPP 2012

Abstract

Napier grass is an important fodder for smallholder dairy cattle. However, the nutritive value is generally low and in most cases does not meet the daily nutrient requirement of dairy cattle. With only 5-12% crude protein (CP), Napier grass diets need to be supplemented with other protein-rich forages and/ or concentrates in order to sustain desired milk production levels. Commercial concentrates are expensive, thus a need to promote the use of forage legumes as alternative protein sources. The importance of forage legumes in increasing herbage production of grasses and the quality of feed produced has been recognized. Research studies have shown that planting Napier grass with herbaceous legumes such as Desmodium increases the overall nutrient availability to dairy cows.