Determination of Optimum Mixture Rate and Cutting Time for Hungarian Vetch and Rye Mixtures

Abstract

This research was carried out in the 2020-2021 vegetation period to determine the best mixing ratio and cutting time for Hungarian vetch (Vicia pannonica Crantz) + rye (Secale cereale L.) mixtures in Kirşehir ecological Conditions. The experimental design was completely randomised in split plots with three replications. The main plots were cutting times, while the sub-plots were mixing ratios. The highest green forage yield (2084.7 kg da^-1), dry matter yield (710.3 kg da^-1), and crude protein yield (68.42 kg da^-1) and digestible dry matter yield (417.5 kg da^-1) were obtained from averages from a mixture of 20% HV + 80% R. Highest crude protein ratio (14.82%), the lowest ADF (33.5%) and NDF (48.6%) ratios averages were obtained from pure Hungarian vetch sowings. Depending on the progression of the cutting time from the booting period to the milk dough period, while the yields of herbage yield, dry matter, crude protein, digestible dry matter and ADF and NDF values increased, the crude protein ratio decreased. For legume + cereal mixtures to be grown in Kırşehir and similar ecological conditions, 20% HV + 80% R mixture should be cut in the milk dough period for higher yield, 80% HV + 20% R mixture should be cut in the booting period for better quality. When the yield and quality were evaluated together, it was concluded that the mixture of 40% HV + 60% R would be suitable for cutting during the flowering period of the rye in the mixture.