| Dehydration of cultivars of the genus Cynodon (Poaceae) and the possible variations of chemical composition of forages during the haymaking process were evaluated. Three cultivars of Cynodon, Tifton 85, Coast cross and Tifton 44 were used, in plots of 15 m2, with three randomized blocks. Samples at 0 (cutting time), 3, 6, 21, 24, 27 and 30 hours after cutting were taken to determine the dehydration curve of whole plant, leaves and stem. Speed in water loss in plant, leaves and stem segments was similar in all cultivars. Drying did not affect CP taxes. There was, however, a difference for the leaves/stem relationship in which Tifton 85 had the highest value. Tifton 44 was higher in the other cultivars with regard to stem diameter. |
