Effect of different sowing times on growth attributes, forage yield and quality in three narbon vetch (Vicia narbonensis L.) genotypes at subtropical climate

Abstract

A study was conducted in 2016-2018 growing seasons at Research and Experimental Area, Field Crops Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Namik Kemal University, Tekirdag, Turkey to record the effects of different sowing times (November, December, January and February) on some growth attributes, forage yield and quality on three narbon vetch (Vicia narbonensis L.) genotypes (Dikili, Bozdag and Ozgen). The highest plant height (75.84 cm) was recorded from 1st sowing time, but highest leaf/stem ratio (1.78) was found at 4th sowing time. The number of branches varied between 1.64 and 2.89. The highest main stem diameter was obtained from genotype Bozdag at 1st sowing time (7.96 mm). The highest herbage (28.23-27.37 t ha(-1)) and hay (5.91-5.81 t ha(-1)) yields were obtained from genotypes Ozgen and Dikili at first sowing time. The lowest crude fiber contents were recorded from genotypes Dikili and Bozdag at 1st sowing time (18.18-18.34%). The acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent lignin contents were increased in all genotypes at late sowing. The phosphorus, potassium and magnesium contents were increased in all narbon vetch genotypes at late sowing. Calcium content was varied between 0.83 and 1.25%. The highest Cu (20.10 ppm), Mn (74.39 ppm) and Fe (206.67 ppm) contents were found at 3rd sowing time.