Effect of cutting intervals and heights in forage productivity of Moringa oleifera

Abstract

The use of Moringa oleifera as fodder is due to its good nutritional characteristics and high yield of fresh biomass. Eastern Yucatan, Mexico has favorable soil and climatic conditions for its establishment. The aim of this work was to estimate forage productivity of Moringa oleifera in two cutting intervals and three different heights. The experiment was conducted at the Experimental Site of Tizimín fron the National Institute of Forest, Agricultural and lLvestock Researches (INIFAP). The experimental units were placed in a completely randomized design with a 2 x 3 factorial arrangement and four replications. Forage yield was quantified and foliage samples were taken for DM content. Significant differences (p<0.05) between total DM production and total protein (TP) in treatments were found. In the period of 60 days and 40 cm cut height, the M. oleifera had the highest dry matter (DM), (1.912 t DM ha-1 cut-1) and TP (0.416 t TP ha-1 cut-1) yields compared with the lowest performance of the other treatments. In the case of leaf-stem ratio (%), plant height, and crude protein (%), no statistical differences (p>0.05) were found. In conclusion, during the evaluation of Moringa oleifera, it was found that the best performance in this work is obtained when the cuts on the soles are made every 60 days at a height of 40 cm (1.9119 t ha-1 cut-1); however, more agronomic studies of this plant are recommended in the eastern Yucatan, such as: planting density, arrangement, partnerships with other shrub species in the region, rain and dry periods, in order to have a viable and profitable option forage productivity of this plant.