Integrated Approach to Forage Seed Production and Supplementation of Dairy Cows in the Semiarid Region of Cameroon

Abstract

Stylosanthes hamata, Calopogonium mucunoides and Macroptilium lathyroides were intercropped with maize in a randomized block design. Age of maturity, forage dry matter and seed yields were determined at the end of their cycles. In another experiment, S. hamata and C. mucunoides were planted and divided into cutting, grazing and control subplots. Lactating zebu cows were put in the grazing subplots, while cutting subplots were cut at the end of the grazing period. Intercropping had no significant effect on the age of flowering and seeding. The establishment rate was however slower in intercropped C. mucunoides and S. hamata. The forage dry matter yield was similar in pure and intercropped C. mucunoides and M. lathyroides, respectively, but significantly higher in pure S. hamata plots (p < 0.01). The seed yield was similar in the two treatments of S. hamata and M. lathyroides, but significantly higher in pure C. mucunoides plots (p < 0.001). In the establishment year, grazing and cutting reduced seed yield of S. hamata (p < 0.001) compared to control. However, the difference was largely offset by a 35% milk yield increase in cows grazing S. hamata. These results indicate that forage legume seed production is feasible and manageable in an integrated production system.