Growth and Prospective Forage Yields of Two Cenchrus Species in Relation to Bio- and Organic Fertilization

I HE GROWTH response and forage yield of two Cenchrus species, i.e., Cenchrus ciliaris and Cenchrus setigerus to different bio- and organic fertilization levels was studied. The experiment was set up during 2002 and 2003 seasons at Maryut experimental station. The study comprised in addition to the above mentioned Cenchrus species three organic manure levels (0,20,40 m3/fed) and three biofertilization treatments (Azospirillum, Azotobacter and without biofertilization as a control) in split-split plot design with three replications. The obtained results could be summarized as follows:1 .Data obtained indicate that C. ciliaris was superior as compared to C. setigerus in all growth parameters and yield.2.Most of the studied growth traits and forage yield of Cenchrus species were increased with increasing organic manure levels from 0 to 40 m3/ fed.3.All growth traits and forage yield of Cenchrus spp. were favourably responded to biofertilization with Azosbirillum compared with the others.4.Interaction between bio- and organic fertilization had a significant effect on number of tillers in the first cut of the second season. Moreover, plant height and dry forage yield were significantly affected in the second cut of the second season. 5.Specific leaf weight (SLW) and dry forage yield were significantly responded to the interaction between Cenchrus species and organic manure levels