Effects of different sowing times and harvesting stages on dry matter yield, quality, and mineral content of teff ( eragrostis teff [zucc.] trotter)

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the effects of different sowing times and harvesting stages on the dry matter yield, quality, and mineral content of teff (Eragrostis teff [Zucc.] Trotter). The study was conducted in 2021 and 2022 using a randomized block-split plot design with three replications. According to the two-year averages, plant height increased on the 1 June sowing time compared to 15 May, and there was more dry matter yield (4962.94 kg ha-1) and crude protein yield (717.48 kg ha-1) per unit area. Additionally, the crude protein content of the teff (156.30 g kg-1) increased, whereas the NDF content (652.38 g kg-1) decreased in the 1 June sowing time. Dry matter accumulation increased depending on the progress of the plant development periods, and, as a result, the late heading stage yielded the highest dry matter (5610.00 kg ha-1) and crude protein (615.90 kg ha-1). The crude protein content reached the highest level in the early heading stage, and the crude protein yield peaked at the highest level in the late heading stage since the yield per unit area was higher. While sowing times changed the Mg and Zn contents of teff, the extended harvesting stages resulted in significant variations in the P, K, Zn, Fe, Cu, and Na contents of teff grass. The highest identified P, K, Zn, Fe, and Na contents were in the booting stage, whereas the highest Cu content was in the early heading stage. The amount of various mineral compounds was higher in the early development periods; however, they were still sufficient to meet the needs of sheep and cattle throughout the early and late heading stages. Based on the study findings regarding high yield and quality, it is reasonable to recommend sowing teff grass in June and harvesting in the early heading stage under Mediterranean climatic conditions.