Seasonal Variation in Productivity and Nutritive Value of-Napier Grass at Muguga, Kenya

Abstract

Seasonal variation in productivity and nutritive value of Napier grass (Penniselum purpureum) was assessed in a high potential area of Kenya to determine the factors affecting the seasonality of the growth. Fifty-five plots of 0.3 ha each were established on a single fie1d selected for uniformity of soil and topography. Fertilizer was supplied at the rate of 6.3 and 4.5 kg/ha of N and P respectively, at each cycle of cutting. Commencing approximately 6 months after planting, one plot was harvested each day in rotation so that an 8-week cutting cycle was established and maintained throughout the trial. The data were obtained from samples taken twice a week, and included dry matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent lignin (ADL). Dry matter digestibility of the Napier grass was determined in vivo using Boran steers during a wet and a dry season growth periods respectively.