Optimization of forage yield using improved dual- purpose sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) varieties

Forage yield optimization with improved sorghum–groundnut varieties.

Abstract

Feed deficit is a major constraint on animal production in Burkina Faso. To remedy this, the intensive production of high-quality fodder is an alternative. In this context, the present study was conducted to improve the supply of high-quality fodder for livestock feed. The study took place in INERA Saria experimental station in Burkina Faso. A completely randomized Fischer block with four (04) replicates trial was conducted with eight (08) treatments involving two (02) varieties of sorghum (Ponta Negra and Sariaso 16), two (02) varieties of groundnut (ICGV 01276 and SH 67A). The parameters evaluated were grain and forage yields, nutritional value of the forage, and the effect of the association on weed management. The results indicated that in both monoculture and association, the highest grain yields were obtained with the sorghum variety Sariaso 16 (4343 kg/ha) and the groundnuts variety ICGV 01276 variety (2143 kg/ha) for. The highest forage yields were observed on Ponta Negra (8730 kg/ha) and ICGV 01276 (4038 kg/ha). Except for the grain yield of Ponta Negra, ICGV 01276 and the forage yield of Sariaso 16-ICGV 01276, all treatments association showed gains in productivity. No significant differences were observed for nutritional values of the fodder between the sorghum varieties, but their values were significantly lower for most of the groundnut leaf. Intercropping produced better results in terms of biomass than monoculture. The results obtained show that the varieties and crop association used have great potential for improving the supply of fodder for livestock feed