Effect of lopping interval on the growth and fodder yield of Gliricidia sepium

An experiment was conducted during 2010 – 2012 to find out the suitable lopping interval of gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium) on sandy loam soil. There were six treatments viz., T₁: lopping once in 2 months, T₂: lopping once in 4 months, T₃: lopping once in 6 months, T₄: lopping once in 8 months, T₅: lopping once in 10 months and T₆: lopping in 12 months and replicated thrice. The results showed that lopping at shorter time interval i.e once in 2 months or 4 months resulted in more number of branches, leaves, leaf weight, leaf branch ratio and increased yield. Further, early lopping resulted in succulent leaves and branches which are highly suitable for the animals to consume.