Forage performance in silage production under water deficit conditions

Abstract

ABSTRACT The positive performance of different cultivars in relation to a water deficit is directly correlated with an increase in biomass production, with repercussions for ensuring system sustainability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the production and nutritional value of four millet genotypes in comparison with that of corn and sorghum under two water supply conditions (simulated water deficit and normal conditions). This experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD), with six cultivars, two irrigation levels, and four replicates, totaling 48 experimental units. At the end of 12 weeks after sowing, biometric and bromatological evaluations were conducted. Based on these results, pearl millet ADR300, ADR500, BRS1501, and ADRf6010 showed promise and are interesting alternatives to be explored by silage producers in more critical water deficit periods. Among millets, ADRf6010 performed similarly to corn and sorghum, which are commonly used in Brazil as forage, indicating that it is the best alternative for silage formation.