Qualitative Evaluation of Fodder Trees and Grasses in Hill Region

Leaves from eleven trees and sixteen grasses were selected for evaluation of fodder quality. It was found that dry matter production was highest in Kharak (37.22%) and Lemon grass (19.25%). The organic matter was highest in ravines (92.15%) and broad leaf Pasfelum (71.48%). Manganese content was high in Utish (145.86 ppm) and Para (150.45 ppm). Iron was found higher in Betain (185.43 ppm) and Lemon grass (180.57 ppm). Calcium was found maximum in Betain (1.84%) and (180.57 ppm). The crude protein content was highest in Fanead (19.24%) and Cetoria cajungula (16.85%). Crude protein and calcium are the most important for feeding the ruminant. Thus fanead and cetoria cajungula are good source of crude protein and capable of providing energy sources to the ruminant. On the other hand Betain and Napier are also found significantly useful in terms of calcium. Thus, these trees and grasses species can be recommended to the farming community of hilly region for uplifting the nutritional demand for their ruminants.