Influence of seed varieties and harvesting regimes on growth indices, yields and nutritional values of hydroponics maize fodder

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the influence of seed varieties and harvesting regimes on growth indices, yields and nutritional values of hydroponics maize fodder in other to ensure sustainable fodder for livestock production. The experiment was 2 x 3 factorial scheme fitted into a completely randomized design (CRD), comprising of two (2) varieties of maize seeds (OBA 98 and Local white maize) and three (3) harvesting regimes (6th, 8th and 10th day). Growth indices, yields, nutritional values were assessed. Results shows a significant (P<0.05) effects of maize seed varieties and harvesting regimes on the growth indices, yields, nutritional values. The OBA 98 maize hydroponic fodder (OHF) had the highest (P<0.05) agronomic indices, yields, nutrients (CP (16.36 %), EE (4.41), CF (7.23), ash (7.13) and NFE (64.88)) than Local maize hydroponic fodder (LHF). The highest significant (P<0.05) contents of the nutrients was observed at 10th day harvesting, while least (P<0.05) was obtained at 6th day harvesting except NFE. The OHF had higher (P<0.05) neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL) and hemicellulose (HEM). The cellulose (CEL) were similar (P>0.05) in OHF and LHF. Similar (P>0.05) ADL, HEM and CEL were recorded across the harvesting regimes. The OHF and 10th day harvesting regime had highest (P<0.05) mineral, tannin, phytate and oxalate contents. Conclusively, OHF had superior growth indices, yields and nutritional values, 10th day harvesting was better than 6th and 8th day. Hence, OBA 98 seed variety and 10th day harvesting regime is recommended for better hydroponics maize fodder production.