Fodder conservation in Northern Rhodesia

Abstract

1. The problems involved in conservation of fodder in Northern Rhodesia are discussed in relation to climate and present day practices. Special reference is made to the conservation of grassland herbage.Climatic conditions do not appear suitable for haymaking.2. A number of silage samples were collected from dairy farms in the territory and from Mount Makulu Research Station. Chemical analyses of these samples are given and their nutritional value is discussed with special reference to their crude protein contents. The majority of the silages were found to have low crude protein.3. A type of miniature tower silo designed for experimental work is described.4. Three crops commonly used for ensilage, i.e. maize, maize with legume and Napier grass, were compared with giant Rhodes grass (Chloris gayana Kunth.) when ensiled in these miniature silos. The type of fermentation and loss of nutrients was studied. Rhodes grass ensiled at the early flowering stage was found to compare favourably with the other three. Napier grass (Pennisetum purpurem) cut when over 6 ft. high did not ensile well and had a low crude-protein content.5. Giant Rhodes grass was ensiled in miniature experimental silos at two different stages of growth. Cutting the grass at a height of 20 in., three times during the season, resulted in a higher yield of dry matter and crude protein per acre than cutting once at a height of 40 in. even when the resultant aftermath growth was included.