Vol. 12, Special Issue 10 (2023)

Author(s):
Dr. Lakhyajyoti Borah, Dr. R Bhuyan, Dr. BN Saikia, Dr. JP Bordoloi, Dr. U Kalita, Dr. M Kalita and Dr. I Hussain

Abstract:
An study was conducted to evaluate the nutrient quality of hydroponically grown maize and conventionally grown maize. For the study, maize sprouts were produced in a low cost hydroponic unit in Instructional Livestock Farm (Cattle), Assam Agricultural University, Khanapara. Nutritive values of maize sprout were studied at 6^th, 7^th and 8^th days and conventionally grown maize at 60 days. The dry matter content of maize seed decreased to its maximum level (22.89±0.14) at 8^th of growth in hydroponic system which was significantly (p<0.05) lower than the conventionally grown maize fodder. The crude protein, ether extract and nitrogen free extract of hydroponic fodder are significantly (p<0.05) more than the conventionally grown maize fodder. Total Ash and crude fibre contents of hydroponic maize fodder were lower (p<0.05) than the fodder maize grown under conventional practices. It can be concluded that hydroponic maize fodders are more nutritious in terms of crude protein, ether extract and nitrogen free extract than conventionally grown maize fodders in Assam.