The influence of soil pH and fertilization (?, ? and Zn) on the dry matter (DM) production, chemical composition (crude protein, P, K, Ca, Mg and Zn content) and organic matter (OM) digestibility of Panicum maximum Jacq. was evaluated in pots. Panicum maximum grew best in a neutral (pH 6,5 in water) to a slightly alkaline (pH 7,5 in water) soil medium. Soil acidity (pH 4,5 in water) adversely affected DM yield as well as the crude protein (CP), P, Ca and Zn content of the above ground phytomass. Fertilization invariably increased DM production, CP content, Zn content and OM digestibility.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.