The effect of nitrogen fertilization and cutting age on dry matter yield and protein content of Rhodes grass at Awassa, southern Ethiopia

Abstract

The crude protein content of Rhodes grass was highest when 69 kg N/ha was applied. The dry matter content of the fresh forage increased with increasing age of regrowth. The crude protein yield did not vary between the different ages of regrowth as the increasing yield offset the decreasing protein content. Overall, the application of 69 kg N/ha appears to be the optimum level of nitrogen fertilizer in terms of dry matter yield and nutritive value of the grass. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd