The effects of different cutting times on morphological, agronomic and quality characteristics of wooly-pod vetch (Vicia villosa Roth ssp. dasycarpa (Ten) Cavi.)

In arid and semi-arid regions, vetch species are typically cultivated in row crop rotation or in the fallow year for the purpose of forage production. In order for vetch to be incorporated more effectively into this agricultural system, it is essential that it does not negatively impact the yield of the subsequent main crop. Therefore, vetches need to leave the field as soon as possible. For this reason, the morphological traits (main stem length, natural plant height), agronomic traits (forage yields) and quality traits (ADF and NDF ratio, digestible dry matter ratio, relative feed value) at four different growth periods were investigated in woolly pod vetch, Seğmen-2002 variety. This study was conducted at the Gölbaşı/İkizce research farm of the Central Research Institute of Field Crops between 2010 and 2013 in a randomised block design with four replications. The results indicated that the main stem length varied between 56.2 and 118.9 cm, while the natural plant height varied between 41.5 and 63.3 cm. The highest yields of fresh and dry forage were obtained at full flowering, with 2157.7 kg ha-1 and 354.1 kg ha-1, respectively. While crude protein content was 19.7% at the beginning of flowering, it decreased gradually throughout the growth periods and decreased to 16.4% at the pod setting period. The highest crude protein yield was obtained at full flowering, with 67.0 kg ha-1. The relative feed value was found to be the highest at the beginning of flowering (111.3) and to decrease to the lowest level (98.5) at full flowering. This research indicates that it is appropriate to cut wooly-pod vetch at full flowering in terms of yield, quality, and early completion of the harvesting process.