Productive traits and nutritional value of Urochloa ruziziensis submitted to different planting densities and defoliation intensities

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the forage mass and accumulation and nutritional value of cultivars Kennedy and BRS Integra (Urochloa ruziziensis), subjected to two planting densities (15 and 30 plants/m2) and three stubble height (15, 30 and 40 cm). The experimental design was a randomized block, in a 2x2x3 factorial, with three replications. The experimental period comprised two agrostological years. Plants managed under lower stubble height (15cm), showed lower leaf:stem ratio and higher canopy heights at harvest, based on the light interception of 95%. The highest forage mass was observed to cultivar BRS Integra under lower planting density (15 plants/m2). The two cultivars showed high nutritive value, without influence of studied factors. In general, the cultivars were similar for most variables studied. Planting with 15 plants/m2 and moderate defoliation (30cm residue) resulted in higher forage accumulation, especially in the second year after planting. These targets are suggested for the management of U. ruziziensis cultivars.