Subabul (Leucaena leucocephala) is a miracle fodder tree. The forage is highly digestible, good source of energy and protein rich (29%) and it can plant in boundaries and borders of coconut gardens/orchard.
Scientific name
Leucaena leucocephala
Important features
This is a fast spreading fodder tree that produces enormous seeds. In drought prone areas, allow the tree to grow for two years to ensure deep root penetration before commencing harvest. Since the leaves contain the toxin mimosine, care must be taken while feeding it to young animals.
Varieties
CO-1 and Local selection
Seed treatment
To get better germination seeds must be treated in hot water at 80 oC for 10 minutes. Then seeds should be soaked in normal water over night (12 hours). Seeds should be shade dry before sowing for few minutes.
Planting methods
Planting is preferred in June-August. About 5-6 kg seeds/ha soaked in hot water overnight should be planted with rhizobium culture at 1m × 1m spacing.
Farm Yard Manure (tons/ha)
8-10 t mixed in soil before planting.
Fertilizer requirement (kg/ha)
25 kg N:60 kg P:40 kg K
Irrigation
Mostly rainfed, every 15-20 days depending on soil moisture.
Harvest
5-6 months (90-100 cm) and subsequent cuttings after 50-60 days.
Green fodder yield (tons/ha)
The initial year yields 12-15 tons and later 40-50 tons annually.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.