Effect of seasonal changes on the herbage composition of Stylosanthes hamata Taub cv. Verano and Centrosema pascuorum Mart. Ex. Benth in the NIGERIAN sub-humid zone

Abstract

A study was conducted in the Nigerian sub-humid zone to find out the effect  of seasonal change on herbage crude protein and mineral composition of verano stylo and Centro. Consequently, plant samples were obtained between September in the establishment year (wet season) through July in the succeeding year (dry season) for analysis. Highest crude protein (CP) and mineral contents were found in the herbage in the wet than in the dry season. The CP levels of centro was most different of the time lower than that of verano in the dry season. There was no appreciable difference  in P concentration during the dry season but Centro had considerable higher P during the rainy season. Micro-nutrients content in the forages were quite variable with season. Crude protein, P and Cu were the most limiting nutrients, particularly, in the dry season, based on recommended critical level requirements. Feed supplementation would then become necessary for improved animal production in the zone, particularly in the dry season.