Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

ABSTRACT: Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Morphometry, productivity and bromatological analisis of purple elephant grass according to nitrogen fertilization / Morphometry, productivity and bromatological analisis of purple elephant grass according to nitrogen fertilization

The objective was to evaluate the morphometric, productive and chemical aspects of purple elephant grass as a function of nitrogen fertilization. The treatments consisted of applying 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 kg ha-1 of N, using a randomized block design, with five treatments and four replications. The following were evaluated: plant height, number, length and leaf mass, stem diameter and mass, leaf/stem ratio, production of green and dry mass, support capacity for dairy cows, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and mineral matter. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5% probability. The increase in N doses did not affect (p < 0.05) the morphometry of the purple elephant grass, however it positively stimulated the productivity, the animal support capacity and the bromatological components of the harvested material. The lack of response to nitrogen fertilization may be related to the edaphocilimatic conditions during the experiment and efficiency in the use of N of the variety used. The results demonstrate the high demand of the cultivar for N, actively interfering in the forage yield.

The objective was to evaluate the morphometric, productive and chemical aspects of purple elephant grass as a function of nitrogen fertilization. The treatments consisted of applying 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 kg ha-1 of N, using a randomized block design, with five treatments and four replications. The following were evaluated: plant height, number, length and leaf mass, stem diameter and mass, leaf/stem ratio, production of green and dry mass, support capacity for dairy cows, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and mineral matter. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5% probability. The increase in N doses did not affect (p < 0.05) the morphometry of the purple elephant grass, however it positively stimulated the productivity, the animal support capacity and the bromatological components of the harvested material. The lack of response to nitrogen fertilization may be related to the edaphocilimatic conditions during the experiment and efficiency in the use of N of the variety used. The results demonstrate the high demand of the cultivar for N, actively interfering in the forage yield.

Sward structure, morphological components and forage yield of massai grass in response to residual effect of swine biofertilizer

The present study aimed to evaluate the residual effects of the application of biofertilizer and mineral fertilizer on sward structure and morphological components of Panicum maximumcv. Massai. The experimental design comprised randomized blocks with six treatments consisting of increasing dosesof swine biofertilizer (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 Mg ha-1) and mineral fertilization (150 kg N ha-1, 33 kg P ha-1), with four replicates. The variables analyzed were pasture height, light interception, leaf area index, forage mass and morphological components.Plant height responded linearly and positively to biofertilizer levels in the three evaluations. The highest averages for light interception (51.63%) and leaf area index (1.64) were observed for the 240 days (40 Mg ha-1). Dry leaf mass was influenced by the increase in biofertilizer dose, with increments of 39.68%, 25.07% and 44.66% for the 240, 300 and 360 days, respectively, when compared to the control treatment. Mineral fertilization promoted lower mass of dead material and lower leaf area index but did not differ from biofertilizer for the other variables. The residual effect of swine biofertilizer was greater than that of mineral fertilization, with a minimum use of 20 Mg ha-1a practical agronomic recommendation.(AU)

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p < 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Twenty-five-centimeter pre-grazing canopy height in palisade grass and forage peanut

Short-term grazing behavior variables are sensitive to the canopy structure and have an impact on daily forage intake. This study evaluated the effect of pre- and post-grazing canopy heights on the forage harvesting process at a patch scale in a mixture of Brachiaria brizantha (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Stapf. syn. Urochloa brizantha R.D. Webster cv. Marandu (palisade grass) and Arachis pintoi Krapov. & W.C. Greg. cv. Belomonte (forage peanut). Treatments were allocated to a split-plot arrangement in a completely randomized design. The plots, in their entirety, consisted of two pre-grazing canopy heights: 25 cm (CH25) and 35 cm (CH35); subplots consisted of three levels of defoliation severity: no defoliation (DS0); 20% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS20); and 40% depletion of pre-grazing canopy height (DS40), with eight replications. Heifers were allowed to graze the patches (0.7 × 0.7 m) and their grazing behavior was recorded. Canopy structure measurements were taken both before and after grazing. Patches from CH35 presented greater stem mass for grass (p = 0.001) and legume (p = 0.002) than did patches from CH25. Bite rate, bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were greater for CH25 than for CH35 (p < 0.001, p = 0.068, and p = 0.074), and bite mass and instantaneous intake rate were lower for DS20 compared to DS0 (p = 0.032 and p = 0.016). Greater stem mass in the grazing strata negatively influenced the instantaneous intake rate.

Forage sorghum production under rainfed farming in sites with and without climate restriction for maize cultivation / Produção de sorgo forrageiro cultivado em condições de sequeiro com e sem restrição climática para o cultivo de milho

Forage sorghum is a crop that can be planted in semiarid regions, due to its greater adaptability to dry climate environments, and can replace maize in these regions, which are often unsuitable for its production. Thus, the objective of the study was to evaluate the structural, morphological and nutritional characteristics of 23 sorghum hybrids forage cultivated in rainfed conditions, planted in different climate conditions, comparing the hybrids, in order to determine what produces the best in the climatic conditions of the explored region, and also to indicate whether this crop can be planted as a replacement for maize in environments not suitable for planting it. The research was conducted in climate BSh in the Municipality of Alvorada do Gurgueia, and climate Aw in the Municipality of Bom Jesus, both in the state of Piauí from 2014 to 2015. Each trial consisted of 20 experimental forage sorghum hybrids [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench], and three commercial hybrids. A randomized block design was used, with three replications in a factorial scheme (2 × 23). The growth characteristics determined were hybrid × climate interaction for the variables plant height, lodging and leaf/stem ratio. For the variable number of tillers, there was a significant difference only between hybrids. There was no difference between hybrids only for the lodging variable of climate Aw. The other variables showed a difference in all hybrids evaluated. There was an interaction for production of dead matter and total dry forage mass between the different environments and hybrids evaluated. For leaf production, there was an effect only for the different environments. For the chemical characteristics, there was an interaction for all variables analyzed between the different environments and hybrids evaluated. The semi-arid region of the State of Piauí, climate BSh which presents a high climatic risk for maize cultivation, proved to be favorable for forage sorghum production. The forage sorghum also presented agronomic characteristics similar to those found in semi humid climate Aw, a favorable region for maize cultivation. In addition, the tested hybrids showed good chemical characteristics, so the BSh climate has great exploratory potential for the cultivation of forage sorghum.(AU)

O sorgo forrageiro é uma cultura que pode ser plantada em regiões semiáridas, devido a sua maior adaptabilidade a ambientes de climas secos, podendo substituir a cultura do milho nessas regiões que são impróprias para sua produção. Com isso, o objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar as características estruturais, morfológicas e nutricionais de 23 híbridos de sorgo forrageiro cultivados em regime de sequeiro, plantados em diferentes climas, comparando os híbridos com finalidade de determinar o que melhor produz nas condições climáticas da região explorada, e também para indicar se essa cultura pode ser plantada em substituição ao milho em ambientes não adequados para o plantio do mesmo. A pesquisa foi realizada em clima BSh no município Alvorada do Gurguéia, e clima Aw no município de Bom Jesus, ambos no estado do Piauí nos anos de 2014 a 2015. Cada ensaio consistiu de 20 híbridos experimentais de sorgo forrageiro [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] e três híbridos comerciais. O delineamento foi em blocos casualizados com três repetições, em esquema fatorial (2 × 23). Para as características de crescimento, houve interação híbrido × clima para as variáveis altura de planta, acamamento e relação folha/colmo. Para a variável número de perfilhos, houve diferença significativa apenas entre os híbridos. Não houve diferença entre os híbridos apenas para a variável acamamento clima Aw. As demais variáveis apresentaram diferença em todos os híbridos avaliados. Houve interação para produção de matéria morta e massa seca total de forragem entre os diferentes ambientes e híbridos avaliados. Para a produção de folhas, houve efeito apenas para os diferentes ambientes. Para as características químicas, houve interação para todas as variáveis analisadas entre os diferentes ambientes e híbridos avaliados. A região semiárida do Estado do Piauí, clima BSh que apresenta alto risco climático para o cultivo do milho, mostrou-se favorável à produção de sorgo forrageiro. O sorgo forrageiro também apresentou características agronômicas semelhantes às encontradas no clima semiúmido Aw, região favorável ao cultivo do milho. Além disso, os híbridos testados apresentaram boas características químicas, portanto o clima BSh possui grande potencial exploratório para o cultivo de sorgo forrageiro.(AU)

Evaluation of Megathyrsus maximus genotypes under water stress conditions

The objective was to evaluate the production of Megathyrsus maximusgenotypes (Syn. Panicum maximum), under different levels of water in the soil. This was a 5x5 factorial completely randomized design conducted in a greenhouse, combining five genotypes of M. maximus(B55, C10 and PM30, cv. Massai and cv. BRS Tamani) and five levels of soil field capacities (20%, 40%, 60%, 100% and 140%), with three replications. Dry matter production was evaluated: leaf, stem, dead material, root, shoot and total dry matters, as well as the number of tillers and leaf:stem and aboveground:root ratios. The qualitative factor (genotypes) was subjected to Duncan test at 5% probability. The quantitative factor (% field capacity) was subjected to regression, adopting 5% as a critical level of probability. There was no interaction between the factors for any of the evaluated characteristics. Significant differences amongthe genotypes were detected for tiller number, dead material dry mass, root and total dry mass and leaf:stem ratio. There was no significant effect of the percentage of field capacity on most of the characteristics, except for leaf:stem and aboveground:root ratios. Cultivar Massai showed the best forage production compared to the other genotypes, regardless of the percentage of field capacity evaluated. In general, the evaluated genotypes were more tolerant to excess water stress than to water deficit.(AU)

Morphometry, productivity and bromatological analisis of purple elephant grass according to nitrogen fertilization

The objective was to evaluate the morphometric, productive and chemical aspects of purple elephant grass as a function of nitrogen fertilization. The treatments consisted of applying 0, 20, 40, 60, and 80 kg ha-1 of N, using a randomized block design, with five treatments and four replications. The following were evaluated: plant height, number, length and leaf mass, stem diameter and mass, leaf/stem ratio, production of green and dry mass, support capacity for dairy cows, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and mineral matter. The data were submitted to analysis of variance and Tukey's test at 5% probability. The increase in N doses did not affect (p < 0.05) the morphometry of the purple elephant grass, however it positively stimulated the productivity, the animal support capacity and the bromatological components of the harvested material. The lack of response to nitrogen fertilization may be related to the edaphocilimatic conditions during the experiment and efficiency in the use of N of the variety used. The results demonstrate the high demand of the cultivar for N, actively interfering in the forage yield.(AU)

Forage availability and weight gain of goats on caatinga enriched with Urochloa trichopus (Hochst) Stapf subjected to fallowing and fertilized with phosphate / Disponibilidade de forragem e ganho de peso de caprinos em caatinga enriquecida com Urochloa trichopus (Hochst) Stapf submetida ao diferimento e a adubação fosfatada

The objective of this study was to evaluate the forage availability and performance of goats in thinned Caatinga enriched with Urochloa trichopus subjected to grazing fallowing and levels of phosphorus fertilization. Twenty-four F1 crossbred goats (Boer x Non-descript breed), whole, 15.0 ± 2.6 kg body weight were distributed in four paddocks (n = 6) according to body weight, age and physiological status. Animals grazed on Caatinga, under continuous stocking, and were gathered and kept in individual pens overnight. The experiment to evaluate animal performance was a randomized block design with 4 treatments (0, 11, 33 and 60 days of fallowing) and six replications. To determine dry mass production and floristic composition, phosphate fertilization was used in the doses of x P2O5 in a randomized block design with five treatments, 0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 kg P2O5 with 4 replications. Phosphate fertilization had an effect on the floristic composition of dicots and U. trichopus (P<0.05). There was an effect of pasture fallowing on the final weight of goats, with the lowest weight (20.40 kg) observed after 60 days of fallowing (P<0.05). Fallowing is not suitable for an area of vegetation in the caatinga, because there was a decrease in forage availability and quality in the dry period, resulting in a lower performance of animals.

Objetivou-se avaliar a disponibilidade de forragem e desempenho de caprinos em Caatinga raleada e enriquecida com Urochloa trichopus submetida ao diferimento de pastejo e doses de adubação fosfatada. Foram utilizados 24 caprinos mestiços F1 (Boer x SPRD), inteiros, com peso corporal de 15,0 ± 2,6 kg, distribuídos em quatro piquetes (n = 6) de acordo com o peso vivo, idade e estado fisiológico. Os animais realizaram pastejo na Caatinga, com lotação contínua, sendo recolhidos e colocados em baias individuais permanecendo nesse local durante a noite. No experimento para avaliar desempenho animal foi usado delineamento blocos casualizados com 4 tratamentos (0, 11, 33 e 60 dias de diferimento) e seis repetições. Para determinação produção de massa seca e composição florística foi usado a adubação fosfatada nas dosagens de x P2O5 em um delineamento em blocos casualizados com cinco tratamentos, 0, 30, 60, 90 e 120 kg de P2O5 com 4 repetições. A adubação fosfatada promoveu efeito para a composição florística de dicotiledôneas e U. trichopus (P<0,05). Houve efeito do diferimento de pastagem para o peso final dos caprinos, com o menor peso (20,40 kg) observado aos 60 dias de diferimento (P<0,05). A adubação fosfatada não aumentou a produtividade de matéria seca. O diferimento não é indicado para uma área de vegetação da caatinga, pois mesmo com a vedação, no período seco ocorreu uma diminuição na disponibilidade e na qualidade da forragem, acarretando um menor aporte dos animais.

Defoliation intensity and leaf area index recovery in defoliated swards: implications for forage accumulation

This study evaluated the leaf area index (LAI) recovery mechanisms and forage accumulation rates on the regrowth of different grass species subjected to different defoliation intensities. For that purpose, plots of Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyugrass), Lolium multiflorum (annual ryegrass), and Avena strigosa (black oats) were defoliated from 20 to 80 % of their initial heights (25, 20, and 25 cm, respectively). At different increments in height, forage samples were collected to ground level and used to estimate tiller population density (TPD), leaf area per tiller (LA), and forage mass. From these data, we calculated the leaf area index (LAI), average leaf area index (aLAI), and average and instantaneous forage accumulation rate (FAR and IFAR, respectively). Data were plotted over time (days) to describe LAI recovery and forage accumulation rates. As the defoliation intensity increased, greater canopy heights were needed for pastures to achieve their maximum forage accumulation rates, which required longer regrowth intervals. The need for high tiller recruitment after defoliation, which delayed canopy LAI recovery, seemed to be one of the main cause. Thus, grazing management strategies that involve costly tiller recruitment could decrease both overall forage production and sward persistence over time. However, the plant ability to recover LAI after successive intense defoliations seems to be species-dependent and related to their phenotypic plasticity.

Defoliation intensity and leaf area index recovery in defoliated swards: implications for forage accumulation

This study evaluated the leaf area index (LAI) recovery mechanisms and forage accumulation rates on the regrowth of different grass species subjected to different defoliation intensities. For that purpose, plots of Pennisetum clandestinum (kikuyugrass), Lolium multiflorum (annual ryegrass), and Avena strigosa (black oats) were defoliated from 20 to 80 % of their initial heights (25, 20, and 25 cm, respectively). At different increments in height, forage samples were collected to ground level and used to estimate tiller population density (TPD), leaf area per tiller (LA), and forage mass. From these data, we calculated the leaf area index (LAI), average leaf area index (aLAI), and average and instantaneous forage accumulation rate (FAR and IFAR, respectively). Data were plotted over time (days) to describe LAI recovery and forage accumulation rates. As the defoliation intensity increased, greater canopy heights were needed for pastures to achieve their maximum forage accumulation rates, which required longer regrowth intervals. The need for high tiller recruitment after defoliation, which delayed canopy LAI recovery, seemed to be one of the main cause. Thus, grazing management strategies that involve costly tiller recruitment could decrease both overall forage production and sward persistence over time. However, the plant ability to recover LAI after successive intense defoliations seems to be species-dependent and related to their phenotypic plasticity.(AU)

Physiological quality of white oat seeds at different temperatures / Qualidade fisiológica de sementes de aveia branca em diferentes temperaturas

White oats are cereals that are grown in different regions of the globe because they have good adaptability and final destination. Thus, their cultivation has shown significant increases in order to meet demand, especially for forage production, grains, and animal and human consumption. High-quality seeds are necessary for crop cultivation and white oats are sown in winter when thermal fluctuations may occur. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological changes in oat seeds exposed to different temperatures during the germination phase. The experiment was a completely randomized design with four replications in a 6 × 4 factorial design. Six cultivars were evaluated: Aphrodite, Altiva, Artemis, Brava, Corona, and Guará at temperatures of 15, 20, 25, and 30 °C, and the following measurements were taken: first germination count, germination, germination speed index (IVG), and seedling length and mass. The results were analyzed using analysis of variance (F test) and the means were compared using Tukey’s test. The cultivars were physiologically affected at the minimum and maximum temperatures. At 15 °C, normal seedlings did not form, whereas the highest germination values were recorded at 20 and 25 ºC, which showed that these temperatures were the most favorable temperatures for the germination process. Vigor declined at 30 °C and there was a greater number of abnormal seedlings and dead seeds.

A aveia branca é um cereal cultivado em diversas regiões do mundo, pois possui boa adaptabilidade e destino final, de modo que seu cultivo tem apresentado acréscimos significativos visando atender a demanda, com destaque para produção de forragem, grãos e alimentação animal e humana. O uso de sementes de alta qualidade é necessário para a formação da lavoura. O cultivo acontece no inverno e ocorrem oscilações térmicas durante a implantação da cultura, sendo assim, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar as alterações fisiológicas em sementes de aveia expostas a diferentes temperaturas durante a fase de germinação. O experimento foi disposto em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em fatorial 6 × 4. Foram avaliadas seis cultivares, Afrodite, Altiva, Artemis, Brava, Corona e Guará nas temperaturas 15, 20, 25 e 30 °C por meio de testes de primeira contagem de germinação, germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância (teste F) e as médias comparadas pelo teste Tukey. As cultivares foram afetadas fisiologicamente nas temperaturas mínima e máxima. A 15 °C não houve formação de plântulas normais. A 20 e 25 ºC foram obtidos os maiores valores de germinação, mostrando-se, portanto, como temperaturas mais propícias ao processo germinativo. A 30 °C, o vigor foi reduzido, apresentando ainda uma tendência de maior número de plântulas anormais e sementes mortas.

Physiological quality of white oat seeds at different temperatures / Qualidade fisiológica de sementes de aveia branca em diferentes temperaturas

White oats are cereals that are grown in different regions of the globe because they have good adaptability and final destination. Thus, their cultivation has shown significant increases in order to meet demand, especially for forage production, grains, and animal and human consumption. High-quality seeds are necessary for crop cultivation and white oats are sown in winter when thermal fluctuations may occur. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the physiological changes in oat seeds exposed to different temperatures during the germination phase. The experiment was a completely randomized design with four replications in a 6 × 4 factorial design. Six cultivars were evaluated: Aphrodite, Altiva, Artemis, Brava, Corona, and Guará at temperatures of 15, 20, 25, and 30 °C, and the following measurements were taken: first germination count, germination, germination speed index (IVG), and seedling length and mass. The results were analyzed using analysis of variance (F test) and the means were compared using Tukeys test. The cultivars were physiologically affected at the minimum and maximum temperatures. At 15 °C, normal seedlings did not form, whereas the highest germination values were recorded at 20 and 25 ºC, which showed that these temperatures were the most favorable temperatures for the germination process. Vigor declined at 30 °C and there was a greater number of abnormal seedlings and dead seeds.(AU)

A aveia branca é um cereal cultivado em diversas regiões do mundo, pois possui boa adaptabilidade e destino final, de modo que seu cultivo tem apresentado acréscimos significativos visando atender a demanda, com destaque para produção de forragem, grãos e alimentação animal e humana. O uso de sementes de alta qualidade é necessário para a formação da lavoura. O cultivo acontece no inverno e ocorrem oscilações térmicas durante a implantação da cultura, sendo assim, o objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar as alterações fisiológicas em sementes de aveia expostas a diferentes temperaturas durante a fase de germinação. O experimento foi disposto em delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em fatorial 6 × 4. Foram avaliadas seis cultivares, Afrodite, Altiva, Artemis, Brava, Corona e Guará nas temperaturas 15, 20, 25 e 30 °C por meio de testes de primeira contagem de germinação, germinação, índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), comprimento e massa seca de plântulas. Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância (teste F) e as médias comparadas pelo teste Tukey. As cultivares foram afetadas fisiologicamente nas temperaturas mínima e máxima. A 15 °C não houve formação de plântulas normais. A 20 e 25 ºC foram obtidos os maiores valores de germinação, mostrando-se, portanto, como temperaturas mais propícias ao processo germinativo. A 30 °C, o vigor foi reduzido, apresentando ainda uma tendência de maior número de plântulas anormais e sementes mortas.(AU)

Melhoramento de campo nativo com uso de calcário e gesso agrícola nos Campos de Cima da Serra/RS / Improvement of native grassland fieldswith use of lime and agricultural gypsum in “Campos de Cima da Serra”/RS

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar o efeito da aplicação de calcário, em doses superiores às recomendadas, e de gesso agrícola na produtividade e teor de macronutrientes do campo nativo na região dos Campos de Cima da Serra –RS. O experimento foi realizado em área de pastagem nativa, localizado em Vacaria –RS. O experimento foi disposto em blocos completamente casualizados alocados em parcelas subdivididas, com quatro repetições. Conduzido em esquema fatorial 3x2: sendo três doses de calcário (0; 3,0 e 5,0 ton ha-1, visando atingir a saturação por bases de 65% e 5,0 ton ha-1, visando atingir uma saturação por bases de 75%) e duas doses de gesso (0 e 2,0 ton ha-1), aplicados superficialmente. O gesso agrícola foi aplicado aleatoriamente em uma das subparcelas. Ao final de cada estação climática foram realizadas avaliações da produção de massa de forragem e teor de macronutrientes, na matéria seca da parte aérea, em duas amostras coletada de uma área de 0,25 m2por parcelas, através do corte da parte aérea “rente ao solo”. A produção de matéria seca do campo nativo no outono, inverno e primavera, apresentou incremento significativo com a aplicação de 5 ton ha-1, sem haver influência no verão. A aplicação de calcário no solo aumentou o teor de nitrogênio e potássio no tecido foliar do campo nativo no período do outono e de cálcio na primavera. A aplicação de gesso agrícola aumentou a produção de matéria seca apenas na primavera e reduziu os teores de magnésio no inverno. Portanto, os resultados demonstram, o potencial de usodo calcário em doses superiores as recomendadas atualmente e do gesso agrícola para aumento da produção de forragem e qualidade das forragens naturais nas épocas avaliadas por este presente trabalho.

The objective of this work was to verify the effect of the application of lime in doses higher than those recommended and of agricultural gypsum on the productivity and macronutrient content of the native field in the "Campos de Cima da Serra" region (Southern Brazil). The experiment was conducted in a native pasture located in Vacaria municipality (Rio Grande do Sul state). The experiment was arranged in randomized blocks allocated in split plots, with four replications each. Conducted in a3x2 factorial scheme: three doses of limestone (0, 3,and 5ton ha-1, aiming to reach a base saturation of 65% and 5.0 ton ha-1, aiming to reach a base saturation 75%) and two doses of gypsum (0 and 2.0 ton ha-1), applied superficially. In addition, agricultural gypsum was randomly applied to one of the subplots. At the end of each climatic season, evaluations of forage mass production and macronutrient content were carried out in dry shoot matter in two samples collected from an area of 0.25 m2 per plot by cutting theaerial part "close to the ground”. The production of dry matter in the native field in autumn, winter and spring showed a significant increase with the application of 5 ton ha-1, with no influence in summer. Furthermore, the application of lime in the soil increased the nitrogen and potassium content in the leaf tissue of the native field in the autumn period. Interestingly, the same happens to calcium in the spring. On the other hand, the application of agricultural gypsum increased dry matter production only in spring and reduced magnesium contents in winter. Therefore, the results demonstrate the potential of using limestone in doses higher than those currently recommended and agricultural gypsum to increase natural forage production and their quality attime intervals evaluated in this work.

Melhoramento de campo nativo com uso de calcário e gesso agrícola nos Campos de Cima da Serra/RS / Improvement of native grassland fieldswith use of lime and agricultural gypsum in “Campos de Cima da Serra”/RS

O objetivo deste trabalho foi verificar o efeito da aplicação de calcário, em doses superiores às recomendadas, e de gesso agrícola na produtividade e teor de macronutrientes do campo nativo na região dos Campos de Cima da Serra –RS. O experimento foi realizado em área de pastagem nativa, localizado em Vacaria –RS. O experimento foi disposto em blocos completamente casualizados alocados em parcelas subdivididas, com quatro repetições. Conduzido em esquema fatorial 3x2: sendo três doses de calcário (0; 3,0 e 5,0 ton ha-1, visando atingir a saturação por bases de 65% e 5,0 ton ha-1, visando atingir uma saturação por bases de 75%) e duas doses de gesso (0 e 2,0 ton ha-1), aplicados superficialmente. O gesso agrícola foi aplicado aleatoriamente em uma das subparcelas. Ao final de cada estação climática foram realizadas avaliações da produção de massa de forragem e teor de macronutrientes, na matéria seca da parte aérea, em duas amostras coletada de uma área de 0,25 m2por parcelas, através do corte da parte aérea “rente ao solo”. A produção de matéria seca do campo nativo no outono, inverno e primavera, apresentou incremento significativo com a aplicação de 5 ton ha-1, sem haver influência no verão. A aplicação de calcário no solo aumentou o teor de nitrogênio e potássio no tecido foliar do campo nativo no período do outono e de cálcio na primavera. A aplicação de gesso agrícola aumentou a produção de matéria seca apenas na primavera e reduziu os teores de magnésio no inverno. Portanto, os resultados demonstram, o potencial de usodo calcário em doses superiores as recomendadas atualmente e do gesso agrícola para aumento da produção de forragem e qualidade das forragens naturais nas épocas avaliadas por este presente trabalho.(AU)

The objective of this work was to verify the effect of the application of lime in doses higher than those recommended and of agricultural gypsum on the productivity and macronutrient content of the native field in the "Campos de Cima da Serra" region (Southern Brazil). The experiment was conducted in a native pasture located in Vacaria municipality (Rio Grande do Sul state). The experiment was arranged in randomized blocks allocated in split plots, with four replications each. Conducted in a3x2 factorial scheme: three doses of limestone (0, 3,and 5ton ha-1, aiming to reach a base saturation of 65% and 5.0 ton ha-1, aiming to reach a base saturation 75%) and two doses of gypsum (0 and 2.0 ton ha-1), applied superficially. In addition, agricultural gypsum was randomly applied to one of the subplots. At the end of each climatic season, evaluations of forage mass production and macronutrient content were carried out in dry shoot matter in two samples collected from an area of 0.25 m2 per plot by cutting theaerial part "close to the ground”. The production of dry matter in the native field in autumn, winter and spring showed a significant increase with the application of 5 ton ha-1, with no influence in summer. Furthermore, the application of lime in the soil increased the nitrogen and potassium content in the leaf tissue of the native field in the autumn period. Interestingly, the same happens to calcium in the spring. On the other hand, the application of agricultural gypsum increased dry matter production only in spring and reduced magnesium contents in winter. Therefore, the results demonstrate the potential of using limestone in doses higher than those currently recommended and agricultural gypsum to increase natural forage production and their quality attime intervals evaluated in this work.(AU)

Production and quality of sunflower and Paiaguas palisadegrass silage in monocropped and intercropping in different forage systems

The objective of this study was to evaluate dry mass production, fermentative parameters and chemical and bromatological composition of sunflower silage and Paiaguas palisadegrass silage in monocropped and intercropping in different forage systems. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks, with four replicates. The treatments consisted of silage forage systems: sunflower monocropped; Paiaguas palisadegrass monocropped; sunflower row-intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass; sunflower inter-row intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass; and sunflower oversown and intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass, totalizing 20 experimental silos. Sunflower and Paiaguas palisadegrass were harvested at 110 days after planting at 20 cm from the soil for silage, using brush cutter. The silos were opened after 53 days of fermentation. The rows and inter-row intercropped systems contributed to increase the mass production of the ensiled material. The monocropped sunflower silage had higher values of pH, ethereal extract and acid detergent fiber and lower values of titratable acidity and dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and in vitro dry matter digestibility values. The silages of the sunflower intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass in forage systems of crop-livestock integration presented better fermentative and bromatological characteristics, guaranteeing an adequate fermentative process and nutritional quality. In this way, the intercropping of these two forages potentiates the production of silage for feeding of ruminants during the period of forage shortage.(AU)

Production and quality of sunflower and Paiaguas palisadegrass silage in monocropped and intercropping in different forage systems

The objective of this study was to evaluate dry mass production, fermentative parameters and chemical and bromatological composition of sunflower silage and Paiaguas palisadegrass silage in monocropped and intercropping in different forage systems. The experimental design consisted of randomized blocks, with four replicates. The treatments consisted of silage forage systems: sunflower monocropped; Paiaguas palisadegrass monocropped; sunflower row-intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass; sunflower inter-row intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass; and sunflower oversown and intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass, totalizing 20 experimental silos. Sunflower and Paiaguas palisadegrass were harvested at 110 days after planting at 20 cm from the soil for silage, using brush cutter. The silos were opened after 53 days of fermentation. The rows and inter-row intercropped systems contributed to increase the mass production of the ensiled material. The monocropped sunflower silage had higher values of pH, ethereal extract and acid detergent fiber and lower values of titratable acidity and dry matter, crude protein, neutral detergent fiber and in vitro dry matter digestibility values. The silages of the sunflower intercropped with Paiaguas palisadegrass in forage systems of crop-livestock integration presented better fermentative and bromatological characteristics, guaranteeing an adequate fermentative process and nutritional quality. In this way, the intercropping of these two forages potentiates the production of silage for feeding of ruminants during the period of forage shortage.

Grazing height targets for Alexandergrass pastures under continuous stocking in integrated crop-livestock system

The aim of this experiment was to identify grazing height targets for Alexandergrass pastures under continuous stocking in integrated crop-livestock system (ICLS). For this purpose, twelve pastures were cultivated into an ICLS area, and maintained at 10, 20, 30, or 40 cm using grazing goats. The following variables were analyzed: leaf and herbage mass, accumulation rate, and allowance; leaf:stem ratio; chemical composition of hand-plucked samples; stocking rate; average daily gain and gain per area. The data were submitted to regression and correlation analysis. Significance was set at 5% (P≤0.05). The main results were: i) herbage and leaf lamina mass increased linearly with grazing height, and pastures maintained at 20 cm already presented the minimum amount recommended for soil cover in ICLS; ii) animal performance achieved an upper asymptotic plateau in pastures maintained around 30-40 cm and it was highly correlated with both grazing height and forage availability (mass and allowance). Alexandergrass pastures under continuous stocking in ICLS should be maintained between 30-40 cm to improve both cover crop biomass and animal performance.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar alturas de manejo para pastos de papuã sob lotação contínua em sistemas de integração lavoura-pecuária (ILP). Para tanto, doze pastos foram cultivados em uma área de ILP e mantidos em 10, 20, 30 ou 40 cm por meio de lotação contínua com caprinos. As seguintes variáveis foram analisadas: massa; taxa de acúmulo e oferta de forragem e de folhas; relação lâmina:colmo; composição química de amostras de simulação de pastejo; carga animal; ganho médio diário e produção animal por área. Os dados foram submetidos a análises de regressão e correlação. A significância adotada foi de 5% (P≤0,05). Os principais resultados foram: i) houve um aumento linear na massa de forragem e folhas com o aumento da altura de manejo e pastos com mais de 20 cm já apresentavam a quantidade mínima recomendada para cobertura de solo em ILP ii) o desempenho animal atingiu um platô assintótico nos pastos manejados entre 30-40 cm e foi altamente correlacionado com a altura de manejo e a disponibilidade de forragem (massa e oferta). Pastos de Papuã manejados sob lotação contínua em ILP devem ser mantidos entre 30-40 cm para favorecer a produção de biomassa de cobertura e o desempenho animal.(AU)

Tissue flow and biomass production of piatã grass in function of defoliation frequency and nitrogen fertilization / Fluxo de tecidos e produção de biomassa do capim-piatã em função da frequência de desfolhação e adubação nitrogenada

Due to the multifactorial aspect between the morphogenetic, morphological and agronomic characteristics of the forage plants, it is necessary to look for management options that increase the production and the utilization of the mass of forage submitted to different frequencies of defoliation and nitrogen levels. The objective of this study was to verify the effects of two defoliation frequencies and two levels of nitrogen applied in a single dose on the morphogenetic, structural and forage production of piatan grass in the water period. The work was carried out in the agrostological field of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (UFMS), Campo Grande - MS. The experimental area was composed of 12 plots of 18 m² each of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (Syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã). The experimental design was completely randomized and the treatments consisted of two defoliation frequencies (with cut intervals of 28 and 35 days) and single application of two levels of nitrogen (100 and 200 kg ha-1 of N, in the form of urea). Therefore, piatan grass pastures can be managed with a single fertilization of 100 kg ha-1 of N, with height close to 30 cm, as the production of leaf blades is not compromised. The single application of high doses of N does not increase the number, but raises the individual weights of existing tillers without affecting the morphogenic and morphological characteristics of the forage canopy. For pastures of piatã grass established in soils of good fertility it is recommended as a management strategy to use 20 cm as minimum height of cut or grazing and frequency of with interval of 28 days and height of approximately 30 cm. In established pastures, in the water period, if it is desired to reduce the dose fractionation of N, it is recommended as a single application the dose of up to 100 kg of N ha-1 immediately after the first cut.

Devido ao aspecto multifatorial entre as características morfogênicas, morfológicas e agronômicas das plantas forrageiras, torna-se necessário buscar opções de manejo que aumentem a produção e o aproveitamento da massa de forragem submetida a diferentes frequências de desfolhação e níveis de nitrogênio. Objetivou-se verificar os efeitos de duas frequências de desfolhação e de dois níveis de nitrogênio aplicados em dose única sobre as características morfogênicas, estruturais e produção de forragem do capim-piatã no período das águas. O trabalho foi realizado no campo agrostológico da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (UFMS), Campo Grande – MS. A área experimental foi composta de 12 parcelas de 18 m² cada de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (Syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos consistiram em duas frequências de desfolhação (com intervalos de cortes de 28 e 35 dias) e aplicação única de dois níveis de nitrogênio (100 e 200 kg ha-1 de N, na forma de ureia). Diante disso, pastos de capim-piatã podem ser manejados com uma única adubação de 100 kg ha-1 de N, com altura próxima aos 30 cm, pois a produção de lâminas foliares não é comprometida. A aplicação única de doses elevadas de N não aumenta o número, mas eleva o peso individual dos perfilhos existentes sem afetar as características morfogênicas e morfológicas do dossel forrageiro. Para pastos de capim-piatã estabelecidos em solos de boa fertilidade recomenda-se como estratégia de manejo usar 20 cm como altura mínima de corte ou pastejo e frequência de com intervalo de 28 dias e altura aproximada de 30 cm. Em pastos estabelecidos, no período das águas, caso se deseja reduzir o fracionamento da dose de N, recomenda-se como aplicação única a dose de até 100 kg de N ha-1 imediatamente após a realização do primeiro corte.

Tissue flow and biomass production of piatã grass in function of defoliation frequency and nitrogen fertilization / Fluxo de tecidos e produção de biomassa do capim-piatã em função da frequência de desfolhação e adubação nitrogenada

Due to the multifactorial aspect between the morphogenetic, morphological and agronomic characteristics of the forage plants, it is necessary to look for management options that increase the production and the utilization of the mass of forage submitted to different frequencies of defoliation and nitrogen levels. The objective of this study was to verify the effects of two defoliation frequencies and two levels of nitrogen applied in a single dose on the morphogenetic, structural and forage production of piatan grass in the water period. The work was carried out in the agrostological field of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (UFMS), Campo Grande - MS. The experimental area was composed of 12 plots of 18 m² each of Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (Syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã). The experimental design was completely randomized and the treatments consisted of two defoliation frequencies (with cut intervals of 28 and 35 days) and single application of two levels of nitrogen (100 and 200 kg ha-1 of N, in the form of urea). Therefore, piatan grass pastures can be managed with a single fertilization of 100 kg ha-1 of N, with height close to 30 cm, as the production of leaf blades is not compromised. The single application of high doses of N does not increase the number, but raises the individual weights of existing tillers without affecting the morphogenic and morphological characteristics of the forage canopy. For pastures of piatã grass established in soils of good fertility it is recommended as a management strategy to use 20 cm as minimum height of cut or grazing and frequency of with interval of 28 days and height of approximately 30 cm. In established pastures, in the water period, if it is desired to reduce the dose fractionation of N, it is recommended as a single application the dose of up to 100 kg of N ha-1 immediately after the first cut.(AU)

Devido ao aspecto multifatorial entre as características morfogênicas, morfológicas e agronômicas das plantas forrageiras, torna-se necessário buscar opções de manejo que aumentem a produção e o aproveitamento da massa de forragem submetida a diferentes frequências de desfolhação e níveis de nitrogênio. Objetivou-se verificar os efeitos de duas frequências de desfolhação e de dois níveis de nitrogênio aplicados em dose única sobre as características morfogênicas, estruturais e produção de forragem do capim-piatã no período das águas. O trabalho foi realizado no campo agrostológico da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (UFMS), Campo Grande MS. A área experimental foi composta de 12 parcelas de 18 m² cada de Brachiaria brizantha cv. Piatã (Syn. Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã). O delineamento experimental utilizado foi inteiramente casualizado e os tratamentos consistiram em duas frequências de desfolhação (com intervalos de cortes de 28 e 35 dias) e aplicação única de dois níveis de nitrogênio (100 e 200 kg ha-1 de N, na forma de ureia). Diante disso, pastos de capim-piatã podem ser manejados com uma única adubação de 100 kg ha-1 de N, com altura próxima aos 30 cm, pois a produção de lâminas foliares não é comprometida. A aplicação única de doses elevadas de N não aumenta o número, mas eleva o peso individual dos perfilhos existentes sem afetar as características morfogênicas e morfológicas do dossel forrageiro. Para pastos de capim-piatã estabelecidos em solos de boa fertilidade recomenda-se como estratégia de manejo usar 20 cm como altura mínima de corte ou pastejo e frequência de com intervalo de 28 dias e altura aproximada de 30 cm. Em pastos estabelecidos, no período das águas, caso se deseja reduzir o fracionamento da dose de N, recomenda-se como aplicação única a dose de até 100 kg de N ha-1 imediatamente após a realização do primeiro corte.(AU)