| Several experimental lines of forage kochia [Kochia prostrata (L. Shrad.)] have potential to provide taller forage on fall and winter rangelands than the only released variety of forage kochia, Immigrant. This study was conducted to determine differences in cattle utilization among experimental lines of forage kochia and to relate utilization to forage quality and morphological attributes. Cattle utilization was determined by subtracting the weights of the grazing residue from the estimated weights of each plant prior to grazing. Forage quality, morphological, and phenological characteristics were also measured and analyzed. Three forage kochia entries Immigrant, BC-118, and U-20 had consistently high values in utilization, forage quality analyses, and most morphological characteristics. Pre-grazing dry weight, stem length, branch density and crude protein were all associated with utilization. These experimental lines of forage kochia are palatable in comparison with alfalfa and winterfat and should be evaluated for possible cultivar release. |
