Growth characteristics of the 3 Napier grass cultivars
responded to the varying defoliation regimes,
demonstrating that defoliation impacts the morphological
development and forage quality of Napier grass
(Manyawu et al. 2003; Tessema 2005; Halim et al.
2013). The significantly taller plants, bigger tillers,
bigger basal circumference and higher stem DM in
Pakchong-1 highlight the vigorous growth of this
cultivar and its adaptation to the wet subtropical
conditions in the southern foothills of Bhutan.
The bigger basal circumference and higher stem DM
yield also suggest lower planting densities should be
employed for this cultivar. Giant Napier appeared
similar to Pakchong-1 in most morphological traits
except for plant height.