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Abstract

During two years, in a rondomized block design with two replicates, it was studied the effect of applying 150, 300 and 450 kg N/ha/year (Ammonium nitrate, 33.5% N) on seasonal dry matter yield production and protein content of the grasses Pangola (Digitaria decumbens, Stent), African stargrass [Cynodon plectostachyus (K. Schum) Pilg.], Hemartria [Hemarthria altissima (Poir) Stapf et Hubbard] and Tanner (Brachiaria radicans, Napper). Average seasonal production for all species was 5.23 tons of dry matter in the dry season and 19.34 ton in the rainy season. Dry matter consumption/animal/day and forage utilization efficiency were higher during the rainy season, and the efficiency of utilization of Pangola grass were superior (P<.05) to those of the other species. Nitrogen fertilization increased crude protein content (from 6.99 to 8.64% in the dry season and from 11.39 to 12.90% in the rainy season) and forage utilization efficiency. African stargrass and Hemarthria showed to be better than Pangola and Tanner for semi-intensive or intensive production system, and if excess forage is not conserved during the rainy season stocking rate should be adjusted periodically. Grazing of Tanner grass during the dry season must be done leniently. Though nitrogen application increased crude protein content and forage utilization efficiency, it would not be profitable to apply more than 150 kg N/ha/year under the conditions of the present study.