Growth of signalgrass influenced by shading levels and season of the year

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate, in different seasons of the year, the morphogenetic and structural traits and dry matter production of Brachiaria decumbens Stapf., established under three shading conditions: exclusive B. decumbens pasture, area distant 12 m from trees, and area under trees cultivated with Eucalyptus grandis mixed with leguminous trees (0, 18 and 50% shading level, respectively). The experimental design was the randomized blocks, in a split plot array in time, with four replications. Shade caused an increase of leaf and stem elongation rates. Shading levels have not influenced leaf appearance rates and leaf number per tiller. Morphogenetic and structural traits and herbage production rates reduced during winter, independently of shading level. Signalgrass presents phenotypical plasticity and responded to seasonal climatic variations and shade conditions; therefore, it has a good potential to be used in silvipastural systems.