B G Mombeshora, A R MaClaurin and I Reh
Farming Systems Research Unit, Department of Research and Specialist Services, Zimbabwe.
Department of Crop Science, University of Zimbabwe, Harare.
Abstract
The Farming Systems Research Unit (FSRU), entrusted with the task of improving and testing livestock technologies for the Communal Farming Areas, has selected two representative areas to carry out its programme. Mangwende is of medium altitude, predominantly sandy soils with pH between 4 and 5, and rainfall between 700 and 900 mm per annum. Chivi has similar characteristics but rainfall is between 400 and 600 mm per annum and is thus classified as a low potential area. In both areas a mixed crop/livestock farming system is practiced. The major constraint to improving livestock management and productivity is the limited availability of feed particularly in the dry season due to the low productivity of the grazing areas and the low quality of the grain stovers.
Previous research on forage legumes in Zimbabwe has shown marked increases in the dry matter yield and crude protein percentage of herbage and improved body weight gains per hectare of up to 60% where fodder legumes have been established. These improvements have occurred in large scale commercial farming area but not in the communal areas because of general shortage of land, the role of animals in the system and little attention to these areas by researchers.
The FSRU is working on the establishment of fodder legumes-Fine Stem Stylo and Siratro on fallow land in the high potential area (Mangwende) and Leucaena leucocephala as a living fence around homesteads and gardens in the low potential area, Chivi. The first year's results of a four year trial show that the legumes can be established and protection against destruction by animals and by white ants and crickets (for Leucaena) is necessary in the first year of planting. There has been no response in yield to fertilizer application in both areas and Leucaena appears very sensitive to excess moisture.
(Abstract only; corrected manuscript not received before publication of workshop proceedings).
