NASCIMENTO, J. L.; NASCIMENTO, Jéssica Leite do.
Abstract:
The objective of this work was to evaluate the cultivation of Tifton 85 grass (Cynodon) when subjected to different doses of nitrogen fertilization aiming at the sustainability of livestock in semi-arid Northeast. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse belonging to the Federal University of Campina Grande, in the municipality of Sumé, Paraíba. Were grown potted grass plants distributed in completely randomized experimental design, in 5 x 3 factorial scheme, with three repetitions. The treatments were comprised of five nitrogen doses (0, 75, 150, 225 and 300 Kg ha-1), using as a source the urea applied after each cut, and 3 cuts frequencies (20, 40 and 60 days after the cut). Analyses were undertaken of Tifton 85 grass growth as: plant height (AP); production of green mass (MV) and dry mass (DM); nitrogen (N) content; nutritional value of Tifton 85 grass, determining the levels of crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (FDA). The highest values of nitrogen and crude protein were obtained on the occasion of the second cut, when the experimental units were composted with 225 Kg ha-1. The levels of NDF and FDA presented the best values on the occasion of the second cut that gave the 60 dat. the results indicate that the sum of the irrigation with nitrogen fertilization is essential for growing grass Tifton 85 and that can promote nutritional levels suitable for such grass.
