Effect of post-planting period on yield of irrigated Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) in Bauchi State.

This study was conducted during the dry season to investigate the dry matter yield and chemical composition of Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon). The test materials were grown at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi in 2020 and 2021 dry seasons. C. dactylon was established on a 3.5 ha paddock by transplantation of sprigs from the wild and experimental plots received sprinkler irrigation twice-weekly. The dry matter yield (t/ha), leaf dry matter (%), stem dry matter (%) and total dry matter (%) were measured. The chemical composition of the grass was also determined. The results obtained indicated that Cynodon dactylon at 12 weeks after transplanting had higher yield (4.08 t/ha) which was significantly different (P<0.01) from other weeks. Results for leaf dry matter followed same pattern as dry matter yield, while stem and whole plant dry matter (%) were higher (P<0.01) in C. dactylon at week 12 (49.20 and 46.17% respectively). Chemical composition decreased as plant matured from week 4 to week 12 while mineral elements examined were not significantly influenced by post-planting period as weeks increased and plant matures. Irrigated Bermuda grass had highest dry matter yield at week 12 and best mineral contents compared to other weeks, while week 4 had the best nutritive values from chemical composition. Hence, it is recommended that irrigated Cynodon dactylon be harvested at 12 weeks after transplanting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]