Production of three annual grass species of hydroponic fodder, in winter

Abstract

This experiment took place during winter, in 2002, at Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, RS, Brazil, in a high tunnel. The objectives were to quantify the production of three species of hydroponic fodder in winter, to identify the proper density of the seeds and to establish the best season for harvesting the fodder. Three species of yearly grass were used (black oat, barley, and rye), with five densities of seeding (0,5; 1,0; 1,5; 2,0; and 3,0 kg m^-2) in three harvesting seasons (7, 14 and 21 days). The experimental design was completely randomized, with six repetitions. The evaluated variables were the height of the plants, the fresh phytomass and the dry phytomass. It was concluded that, in order to produce hydroponic fodder in winter, barley and rye are the most recommended species; 2,0 kg m^-2 is most adequate density of seeds; and the best harvesting season is 14 days after the seeding.