Growth, Nodulation and Nitrogen Fixation Capacity of Egyptian Clover

Abstract

Experiments were conducted to evaluate the Egyptian clover (Trifolium alexandri-num cv. Miscawi) as a winter forage crop under 3 and 6-week harvesting intervals and its symbiotic nitrogen fixation capacity. Forage yield within each growing period, total seasonal forage yield and seed production showed a significant variation among the harvesting intervals, indicating that potential yield for this crop may not be expressed unless a compatible harvesting interval is imposed. Egyptian clover gave significantly higher forage yield and seed production under the 6-week interval compared with the 3-week harvesting interval.

Symbiotic N fixation was estimated by total N content techinque. Egyptian clover showed an early nodulation and an average crude protein content in the shoot of 18.4%. Average efficiency of N fixation for this crop was 40.35 mg N/gm dry wt./ nodule/ day. It is concluded that Egyptian clover is a dependable winter crop in producing good forage yield with a high nutritive value under a proper management system. Moreover, the potential for N fixation in this crop is sufficient to sustain high yield under a suitable management system. Finally, it is suggested that the effect of seeding date on the performance of this crop and its water soluble carbohydrate trends should be evaluated.