Hay Production of Smooth Bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.) as Influenced by Various Management Practices in Highlands

Abstract

The effects of sowing time and companion crop on hay yield, weed rate and some hay quality parameters of smooth bromegrass were determined in 2014 and 2015. Smooth bromegrass was sown in spring and summer period with or without wheat as a companion crop. The study was established according to the experimental design of randomized complete blocks in irrigated conditions with three replications. Sowings mixed with companion crop in spring produced higher dry matter yield in the first year and in the second year. Mixed sowing with companion crop decreased the rate of weeds in the first year from 76.7% to 7.8%. Sowing time was not effective on hay quality, but the use of companion crop decreased the crude protein content and increased ADF and NDF ratios in the establishment year.