Effect of manuare application and intercropping ratios on forage yield and quality of oat (Avena sativa L.) and berseem clover (Trifolium alexandrinum L.)

To determine appropriate ratio for intercropping of oat and berseem clover under manure application levels, a field experiment was carried out as split-plot arrangements using randomized complete block with three replications in 2015-2016 cropping season at Ramin Agricultural and Natural Resources University of Khuzestan, Ahvaz, Iran. Experimental treetments included: manure: 0, 12, 24, 36 ton.ha-1 from composted cow manure were assigned to main plots, and five ratio of oat mixed cropped with breseem clover: I: sole crop of oat, II: 75% oat 25% clover, III: 50% oat 50% clover, IV: 25% oat 75% clover, V: clover sole cropped were randomized in sub-plots. Results showed that the highest dry forage yield (12849 kg.ha-1) and crude protein yield (2404 kg.ha-1) obtained from 50 % oat 50 % clover and application of 36 ton.ha-1 of manure. The highest forage crude protein conten (%) and dry matter digestibility obtained from sole cropping of berseem clover and application of 36 ton.ha-1 of manure. The highest forage ash observed in 75% clover 25% oat and highest water soluble carbohydrate, NDF and ADF measured in sole cropping of oat. 50% oat 50% berseem clover with application of 36 ton.ha-1 of manure had the highest LER (1.53) as compared with other mixed cropping ratios.