Periodic Variations of Lablab purpureus Productivity Harvested at Different Growth Stages: A Case Study in Mid Northern Uganda

Nviiri Geofrey, Okello Horace, Turyagyenda Laban, Kigozi Abasi, Mugerwa Swidiq

Abstract: The nutrient profiles and yields of Lablab purpureus were determined to evaluate its potential as a crude protein (CP) supplement for protein deficient dry season forages available in northern Uganda. The study aimed at determining the stage of harvesting for optimum CP yield under the mid northern Ugandan growth conditions. Using a Completely Randomized Block Design the experimental field was divided into 3 blocks, with 9 subplots corresponding to the experimental units (days after germination (DAG)) within each block. Samples were taken every 15 days from 30 to 150 DAG. Data collected at each date included dry matter yield (DM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent fibre (ADF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), and in vitro dry matter digestibility (INVOMD) from each treatment. The average CP content in lablab had a significant (P

Keywords: Lablab purpureus, Northern Uganda, Dairy production, nutritional characteristics, yield