The effect of growth stage and cutting height of Virginia fanpetals (Sida hermaphrodita) on quality and nutrition value of herbage and silage

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of growth stage and cutting height on the quality and nutritional value of Virginia fanpetals (Sida hermaphrodita R.) herbage and silage. Virginia fanpetals herbage was harvested on three dates (11, 18, 25 June), at four cutting heights (15, 25, 35, 45 cm). The first harvest was carried out in the early bud stage, the second – bud stage and the third – early bloom stage. The chemical composition, carbohydrate and protein fractions, indicators of ensiling suitability and fermentation parameters were analyzed. Growth stage had a significant effect on the content of dry matter (DM), neutral detergent fiber (NDF). Cutting height induced significant differences in the content of crude protein (CP), NDF, and acid detergent lignin (ADL), and selected indicators of ensiling suitability of herbage. Herbage harvested on 11 June and cut at a height of 45 cm was characterized by the highest nutritional value, and it was most suitable for ensiling. The pattern of lactic acid fermentation was most desirable when herbage was harvested on 18 June and cut at a height of 45 cm. Silage made from herbage harvested on 11 June and cut at a height of 45 cm had a significantly more favorable CP composition. These types of silage were characterized by the smallest extent of proteolysis, and by the highest content of fractions B1 and B2. The results of the study suggest that high-quality silage can be made from herbage harvested at the beginning of bud development (11 June) and cut and a height of 45 cm.