Effect of multiple harvests on chemical composition of important nutrients of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) grown in Uthal, Lasbela District, Balochistan, Pakistan

The purpose of this paper was to study the effect of different harvests on alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)biomass through the assessment of DM (Dry Matter contents), CP (Crude Protein), EE (Ether Extract), CF (Crude Fibre) and NFE (Nitrogen free extract). Alfalfa was collected from five cuts (three cuts from 1-3 months, first harvest and second harvest). The results of present study revealed that feed quality of alfalfa harvested as silage depends, to a great extent, on the maturity of the stand. With increasing maturity, CP, and Ash quantity decreases and on the other hand crude fibre (CF) and nitrogen free extract (NFE) fractions, were increased. These fibre fractions represent the more indigestible parts of the plant. As a result, digestibility and energy of alfalfa as a fodder crop decreased with maturity