Assessment of Performance in Cereal Fodder Crops with Relation to Seeding Rates and Cutting Stages
Akash Paul
Department of Agronomy, Central Agricultural University, Imphal-795004, Manipur, India.
Hridesh Harsha Sarma *
Department of Agronomy, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785013, Assam, India.
Anasuya Boruah
Department of Agronomy, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141004, Assam, India.
Sonam Lhamu
Department of Agronomy, Central Agricultural University, Imphal-795004, Manipur, India.
Olympica Das
Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785013, Assam, India.
Nilabh Talukdar
Department of Agronomy, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat-785013, Assam, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Cereal fodder crops serve as indispensable sources of nutrition for livestock, contributing significantly to the efficiency and sustainability of animal production systems worldwide. Maximizing the productivity and quality of these crops requires careful management, with seed rates and cutting stages playing pivotal roles in determining crop performance. Seeding rates play a critical role in crop establishment and growth, with both low and high rates affecting plant competition and ultimately yield. Cutting stages, on the other hand, are pivotal in determining the quality and nutrient composition of the forage. Optimal cutting stages vary depending on the intended use, such as hay, silage, or grazing and can significantly influence digestibility and overall nutritional value. The assessment of cereal fodder crops is therefore pivotal for optimizing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable livestock feed production. Understanding the intricate relationship between seeding rates, cutting stages and crop performance is essential for sustainable agriculture and livestock production systems, contributing to improved resource efficiency and economic viability.
Keywords: Cereal fodder crops, cutting stages, livestock feed, productivity, quality, seed rates