Grasses (cont'd) |
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Pennisetum purpureum (hybrid Napier N69)
The Pennisetum genus contains annuals and perennials, tufted or creeping varieties with branched stems. Pennisetum purpureum is an important pasture species; and hybrid Napier N69 is similar to Napier grass, but has a higher leaf-to-stem ratio than Napier. Annual dry matter yield of 16.6 tons/ha at 6 weekly cutting interval and 130 kg/ha/an of Nitrogen was recorded for hybrid Napier N69.
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Pennisetum purpureum (Mott Dwarf Elephant Grass)
While being a short grass as the name suggests, Mott Dwarf Elephant Grass can grow to an uncut height of 1 metre. Although the yield is usually less than Napier grass, the Mott dwarf has a higher leaf-to-stem ratio. Its most outstanding characteristic is its high forage quality.
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Panicum maximum (Guinea Grass)
This 2m tall grass of the Poaceae family is native to Africa. Its adaptability to tropical climate, drought-like conditions and a variety of soil types makes it suitable fodder for farm animals locally. Guinea grass leaves are fine, soft and contain good levels of protein (13-21%). The root system of Guinea grass allows it to survive fires. Additionally, it is shade-tolerant and can be intercropped with taller plants. It seeds profusely ensuring a constantly regenerating fodder supply.
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| Legumes |
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Leuceaena leucocephala (Wild Tamarind)
Leuceaena leucocephala is a deep-rooted perennial shrub native to Central and South America. The plant is suited to well-drained neutral to alkaline soils, and is also drought resistant. Ruminants may graze on wild tamarind, or it may be harvested for feeding.It is propagated by seeds or cutting.
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Gliridia sepium (Quickstick)
Gliridia sepium is a fast-growing tree that reaches up to 20 metres in height. Useful as live fence post, Quickstick is a good source of protein and can be propagated by seeds or cutting. The species is also known to improve animal production (both milk and meat) in large and small ruminants.
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