Yield, intercepted radiation, and morphology of crotalaria (Crotalaria juncea L.) at different densities

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the yield, intercepted radiation, and morphology of crotalaria (Crotalaria juncea L.) at different planting densities, in the dry tropics of the state of Guerrero, Mexico.Design/Methodology/Approach: The treatments were four planting densities: 400,000, 200,000, 100,000 plants ha1 and overseed. Additionally, a growth analysis was carried out at 30, 38, 45, 52, 60, 68, and 75 days of growth, after the pod was fully developed. The following variables were evaluated: dry matter yield, intercepted radiation, and morphology composition.Results: Regardless of the cutting age, the dry matter was recorded in the following descending order: 400,000  overseed  200,000  100,000 plants ha1 planting densities, with 19,837, 17,918, 8,786, and 4,074 kg DM ha1, respectively.Study Limitations/Implications: In order to improve livestock feeding in the tropics, the perspective of the producers about the use of pulses as forage must be broadened.Findings/Conclusions: A 400,000 crotalaria plants ha1 planting density and cuts after 45 days of growth are recommended. During this period, the meadow reaches its optimal structural characteristics, while the intercepted radiation reaches 95%.