Barseem, also known as Egyptian clover, is a highly nutritious forage crop that is extensively cultivated in many parts of the world. It belongs to the legume family and is commonly used as a livestock feed due to its high protein content. Barseem plays a vital role in ensuring the productivity and sustainability of livestock farming. In this article, we will explore some of the popular varieties of the barseem crop.
1. Selima: Selima is a widely grown barseem variety known for its high-yield potential and excellent foraging qualities. It has a fast growth rate and can be harvested multiple times in a year, making it an ideal choice for farmers looking for regular feed supply. Selima has a high leaf-to-stem ratio, resulting in a better nutritional profile and increased palatability for livestock.
2. Giza 1: Giza 1 is one of the oldest and most widely cultivated barseem varieties. It is a top choice for farmers due to its adaptability to diverse climatic conditions and high tolerance to low temperatures. Giza 1 has a good regrowth ability and is a preferred variety for hay production. It provides good quality forage, contributing to the overall health and productivity of livestock.
3. Giza 2: Giza 2 is a high-yielding barseem variety primarily cultivated in regions with moderate temperatures. It has a vigorous growth habit and can withstand various environmental stresses, including drought and salinity. Giza 2 is noted for its dense foliage and excellent palatability. This variety is commonly used for grazing, silage, and hay production.
4. Beit-alpha: Beit-alpha barseem is a popular variety known for its adaptability to warm climates. It is commonly grown in regions with long summers and limited water availability. Unlike other varieties, Beit-alpha can tolerate higher temperatures without compromising the quality of forage. This variety is rich in nutritional content and is extensively used for feeding livestock during the dry season.
5. Giza 20: Giza 20 is a recently developed barseem variety with improved characteristics, especially in terms of yield and resistance to diseases. It has better heat tolerance compared to other varieties and is suitable for cultivation in warmer regions. Giza 20 produces a high volume of biomass, making it an excellent choice for silage production. It helps farmers to meet the nutritional requirements of their livestock throughout the year.
In conclusion, the cultivation of barseem crop offers numerous benefits to farmers in terms of livestock feed production. The selection of suitable varieties plays a crucial role in maximizing the productivity of this crop. While there are several types available, Selima, Giza 1, Giza 2, Beit-alpha, and Giza 20 are some of the noteworthy varieties known for their adaptability, high yield potential, and nutritional quality. Farmers should consider their local climate, soil conditions, and intended use for the barseem crop to make an informed decision about the variety they choose to cultivate.