The objective of this work was to evaluate the agronomic performance of palisade grass genotypes [Urochloa brizantha (Syn. Brachiaria brizantha)] in succession to soybean, for use on crop-livestock integration systems. The Marandu, MG 4, Xaraés, Piatã, Arapoty e B 6 genotypes were evaluated as a second crop, during the dry season, and soybean, in the summer crop, in a succession scheme, from 2007 to 2010. In each year, forages were sown in March and evaluated at successive cuts until late September, then desiccated in October to allow for no-tillage soybean seeding in november. A randomized complete block design with four replicates was used. Xaraés and B 6 genotypes were among those with higher forage production. The Xaraés cultivar showed lower contents of crude protein, in vitro digestibility of organic matter, calcium, and phosphorus, which, however, can be considered good for this genus, since it was grown in fertile soil. There is variation among U. brizantha genotypes as to their performance in the second crop. The Xaraés and B 6 genotypes show better performance in succession to soybean, in integrated production systems. The MG 4 and B 6 genotypes are easily desiccated with glyphosate herbicide. Soybean yield is not significantly affected by the cultivation in succession to the U. brizantha genotypes.
Brachiaria brizantha; Urochloa brizantha; Glycine max; forage; crop-livestock integration; second crop
