Production of Maize Silage is Possible in Integrated Systems with Arboreal Component

Abstract

Distribution of the intercropped plants determines the production but it is highly dependent on the machinery of the property. Producers, who harvest silage row by row, depend on plantings with greater spacing. This study was aimed to evaluate the maize intercropped for cultivated silage in 0.90 m between rows, with grass under the shade and full sunlight conditions. Maize with brachiaria grass was tested in four sowing densities (0, 2, 4 and 6 kg of pure and viable seeds per hectare). The factorial treatments (2x2x4) were distributed in a split-plot design with four repetitions. The maize agronomic characteristics and the silage quality were evaluated. There was a high level of competition when associated with maize, piatã and eucalyptus. Aggressive piatã grass growth, with light restriction by trees, have affected strongly the maize forage mass-produced, and consequently, reduced silage production. Regarding grain yield, the intercrop with ruziziensis grass was superior (210%) to the intercrop with piatã grass. It was mainly influenced by the low yield in the piatã grass intercropped under shade conditions. This pattern was different for ruziziensis because it was a less aggressive grass in terms of growth. For plantations with 0.90 m of spacing, there was a light restriction. The maize intercropped under the shade of trees must be done with lower growth rate grass to reduce competition and maintain the yield.