Effet de la fertilisation et de la densité sur la production de biomasse de Andropogon tectorum (Schumach & Thonn)

Study of the effect of the mineral fertilization and planting density on the production of Andropogon tectorum (Schumach & Thonn)

The progressive reduction in grazing space is one of the difficulties encountered by all types of livestock farming in Côte d'Ivoire in terms of feed, which accounts for around 50 % to 70 % of production costs. The aim of this study was to improve biomass production from the forage grass Andropogon tectorum (Schumach & Thonn) in order to increase the availability of feed for ruminants in Côte d'Ivoire. An experimental plot was set up with eight treatments taking into account three factors (fertilization, cutting interval, planting density). The results show that treatment E1D4C6 (Fertilizer + 40 cm between plants + 60 days before cutting) promotes good plant development in terms of height, number of tillers and leaves. It also has the best seasonal load-bearing capacity. This treatment gives a potential yield of 1125.86 kg DM. ha-1, with a low mortality rate. Treatment E1D4C6 remains the best.