Response of seeded Cenchrus ciliaris to different frequencies and seasons of clipping intensities
Response of seeded Cenchrus ciliaris to different frequencies and seasons of clipping intensities
M. Rafique Sardar
ABSTRACT
A simulation grazing (clipping) study was carried out ion 1984 in the established seeded Cenchrus ciliaris, an inter-crop with Eucalyptus camaldulensis, at Jamrud, Peshawar. This study was laid out under split-split plot design and was maintained for 9 years (1984-92). Three clipping intensities 9stubble heights) and 3 frequencies (clipping intervals) were tested in 4 different seasons
namely; the spring (February-April), the summer (May-July), the fall (August-October) and the winter (November-January). The study showed that average forage production under control (no treatment) was highest of all the treatments. This indicated that seeded Cenchrus ciliaris is sensitive to repeated clippings. However, clippings at different intensities and frequencies in different seasons had variable results. Light fortnightly clippings in the spring gave the highest forage production of all other intensities and frequencies. Heavy monthly clippings in the summer yielded highest forage production while moderate 1/2 monthly clippings gave highest forage production in the Fall. In the winter season heavy clipping gave highest forage production of all other intensities and frequencies. Enough soil moisture during Spring and winter seasons had no positive effect on forage production, however, availability of sufficient soil
moisture in the fall season had appreciable effect on forage production. The study based on the information has suggested cut and carry program for seeded Cenchrus ciliaris under silvopastoral system or deferred rotation grazing plan with grazing in late fall to winter season in the Peshawar valley.
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September 1993
Vol. 43, Iss. 3
