Effect of Seeding Density on the Fodder Yield and Quality of Two Maize Varieties

Abstract

Two varieties of maize viz., Neelum and Akbar were compared at seed rates of 75, 100, 125 and 150 kg haG 1 in Faisalabad conditions. Varieties showed non-significant differences for all parameters studied except dry matter yield. Cultivar Akbar gave significantly more DM yield (7.18 t haG 1 ) than Neelum (6.09 t haG 1 ). Seeding densities showed significant effects growth and yield parameters. Plant height, green fodder yield, dry matter yield and crude fibre percentage was increasing with increasing seed density, whereas, the increase in crude fibre percentage could not reach to a significant level. While stem diameter, leaf area plantG 1 , crude protein percentage, total ash percentage and ether extractable fat percentage decreased significantly with increased seed rate. The cultivar Akbar and seed rate of 150 kg haG 1 seems to be the best for producing higher fodder yield of maize in Faisalabad conditions.