The effect of variety on maize grain and crop residue yield and nutritive value of the stover

Eight varieties of maize, namely Awassa 511 (A511), Birkata, composite of best families (CBF), Dendane, drought tolerant population (DTP1), Guto, Katumani and Keroshet planted in 1995 cropping season were compared for grain and crop residue yield and nutritive value of the stover. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed in grain and crop residue yields of the varieties. Grain yield was highest (6.99 t ha−1) in DTP1 and lowest (2.21 t ha−1) in Keroshet. Stover and total crop residue yields were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in A511 than in CBF and Dendane. The stem was the largest portion in the stover varying from 31% in Dendane to 50% in A511. The stover of Birkata showed a high crude protein (CP) and low ash and fibre contents compared to the other varieties. The CP content varied from 28 g kg DM−1 (Guto) to 61 g kg DM−1 (Birkata). Crop residue yield and quality parameters, except CP content of the stover, were not negatively correlated with grain yield. The potential utility index varied from 61% (Keroshet) to 74% (CBF). The varieties with higher potential utility indices, except Guto, also had relatively higher solubility, 48 h DM degradability and effective degradability compared to the other varieties. The overall results showed evidence of varietal differences in grain and stover yield and stover quality and indicated the possibility of selecting for maize varieties that combine high grain yield and desirable stover characteristics.