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Two-years evaluation of yield–quality stability in tropical forage grasses under subtropical conditions
Abstract
Interannual weather variation can affect both forage yield and nutritive value. This makes stable clipping recommendations important for subtropical livestock systems. The present two-year experiment (2024–2025) tested whether optimal clipping intervals remain stable across contrasting growing seasons. Seven grass entries (Pennisetum glaucum, Setaria anceps, Panicum coloratum, Panicum maximum, Pennisetum orientale, Pennisetum purpureum, and Sorghum almum) were clipped at 45, 60, 75, and 90-day intervals in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three blocks over two consecutive years. Mixed-effects models, with year and block nested within year as random effects, were applied to dry matter (DM) yield, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), In vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), and relative feed value (RFV). Year-to-year variation was more evident in early-clipping yields (45–60 days) than in late-clipping yields (75–90 days) for most species. Across the two study years, Pennisetum purpureum maintained relatively stable nutritive value and tolerated delayed clipping up to 90 days, whereas Setaria anceps showed greater year-to-year sensitivity in IVDMD. The 60–75-day window remained a robust compromise across both years, but species-specific adjustments are recommended. Sorghum almum and Panicum maximum maintained quality at 60 days, while Pennisetum purpureum retained comparatively higher nutritive value when clipping was delayed to 90 days. The second year of data confirmed the general 60–75-day clipping recommendation. However, species differed in interannual stability, which should guide grass selection in areas with variable rainfall.
