Determination of cutting frequency for optimum herbage yield and nutritive value of Desho grass (Pennisetum glaucifolium) in western Oromia, Ethiopia.

ABSTRACT

The experiment aimed to determine the optimal cutting frequency for desho grass to maximize dry matter yield and forage quality. Three cutting intervals (30, 45, and 60 days) were tested in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The agronomic parameters, dry matter yield, and chemical composition of the grass were collected and analyzed via standard procedures. The cutting frequency significantly affected the agronomic parameters and chemical composition but did not affect the DM yield. The tallest plants and most leaves were observed at 60-day intervals, while the tiller density was greater at 30 days. A relatively high DM yield (8.64 t/ha) was obtained by cutting desho grass at 30-day intervals, which was comparable to the results of the other treatments. The crude protein content decreased with increasing intervals, whereas the ADF content increased. Overall, cutting desho grass at 30-45 days optimized both the DM yield and nutritional value in the study areas.