EMERGENCE OF Urochloa Brizantha CV. MARANDU AND Megathyrsus Maximus CV. MOMBASA UNDER DIFFERENT SOWING METHODS IN TWO SOIL TYPES

Abstract

Pastures form the basis of ruminant feed in Brazil, being fundamental for the productivity and sustainability of livestock systems. However, studies on the emergence of forage seedlings under different soil conditions and sowing methods are still limited. The study aimed to evaluate the emergence of seedlings of Marandu (Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu) and Mombaça (Megathyrsus maximus cv. Mombaça) forages in Oxisol and Plinthosol, under different sowing methods. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design, in a factorial scheme, with four replications. Seedling emergence and its relationship with seed potential were evaluated. There was no significant interaction between the factors studied. A significant effect was observed only for forage and sowing method. No differences were found between soil types. Marandu showed greater emergence compared to Mombaça. Raking and/or compaction sowing methods resulted in higher emergence rates compared to surface sowing, highlighting the importance of proper seed placement for the initial establishment of forage crops.