Adaptability and productivity evaluation of Desho grass (Pennisetum pedicellatum) varieties under Bako condition, Western Oromia, Ethiopia

Adaptability evaluation is a primary step in introducing new varieties (either forage or food crops) from their place of release to another new environment for further studies. This study was conducted in 2022 and 2023 to identify the best adaptable and highest herbage-yielding Desho grass variety/s. The treatment consists of four Desho grass varieties (Kindu Kosha-DZF-591, Kulumsa-DZF-592, Kindu Kosha-DZF-589, and Areka-DZF-590) arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. This study showed that Desho grass varieties varied significantly in most of the measured parameters across all sites. The highest plant height (74.00 cm) for Areka-DZF-590 at Bako was recorded; statistically similar higher tillers per plant (TPP) were recorded for Kulumsa-DZF-592 (34.80), Kindu kosha-DZF-589 (38.60), and Areka-DZF-590 (39.9). The highest dry matter yield (DMY) was obtained from Areka-DZF-590 (27.25 t ha⁻¹), followed by Kindu kosha-DZF-589 (21.97 t ha⁻¹), Kulumsa-DZF-592 (21.49 t ha⁻¹), and Kindu kosha-DZF-591 (19.46 t ha⁻¹). Tillering ability and forage DMY were among the traits of greater interest in this study. Even though there were some differences in some of the measured parameters, all the varieties produced a similar large number of TPP and DMY in all the sites. Generally, among the varieties of Desho grass tested in this study, Areka DZF # 590 was superior in producing the highest DMY and TPP during the experimental years. Thus, it is recommended that this variety be demonstrated and familiarized to the farming community to lessen the existing feed shortage in the study area.