EFFECTS OF FERTILIZER AND CLIPPING ON PROTEIN IN LEAVES OF DESERT GRASSES

The effects of nitrogen fertilization and cutting intervals on extractable protein have been studied in three arid zone grasses, viz. Cenchrus setigerus, C. ciliaris and Lasiurus sindicus. Depending on the number of cuts and soil fertility status, maximum protein could be harvested from C. ciliaris followed by C. setigerus and L. sindicus. It is concluded that the maximum yield of leaf protein per unit area of land can be achieved with short intervals of cutting coupled with the application of nitrogenous fertilizer. © 1979, Cambridge University Press. All rights reserved.