Phenological characteristics and nutritive value of Three forage legumes as being influenced by plant species and soil type under rainfed conditions

Abstract

Three forage legumes, namely cowpea [ Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp ], clitoria (clitoria 
ternata, L.) and pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp], were planted in three rows at two 
locations of different soil types, namely loamy and clay soils, under rainfed conditions. The 
objective was to study the effect of soil type on the morphological characteristics and nutritive 
value of these species. The experimental design used was 2×3 split plot with four replications. 
Cowpea showed the lowest number of days to maturity followed by pigeon pea and clitoria. A 
similar trend was observed for fresh and dry matter yields per feddan ( 1 fed = 0.42 ha ). Cowpea 
gave also the highest in vitro digestibility. Hundred seed weight differed between the three 
species. Generally, plants grown on loamy soil had better morphology and nutritional value as 
well as higher yields than those grown on clay soil. 
Highest in vitro digestibility. Hundred seed weight differed between the three species. Generally, 
plants grown on loamy soil had better morphology and nutritional value as well as higher yields 
than those grown on clay soil.