Effect of planting density on the agronomic performance and forage potential of Vicia sativa L. in the high Andes of Peru

Abstract

In the high Andean regions of Ancash, Peru, limited high-protein forage during dry seasons challenges livestock feeding. A locally adapted ecotype of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) grows spontaneously and shows resilience to harsh conditions. This study evaluates its agro-morphological traits, forage and seed yields, and chemical composition to assess its potential as a sustainable forage resource for improving livestock nutrition in the region. This study was conducted using a completely randomized design with four plant spacing treatments: 10 cm, 20 cm, 30 cm, and 40 cm, maintaining a fixed row spacing of 30 cm. Seeds were collected from smallholder agricultural fields during the dry season. The highest plant densities, particularly 10 and 20 cm spacing, produced greater dry biomass. The forage biomass contained nitrogen (5.08%) and potassium (2.03%), with crude protein and crude fiber at 26.27 and 22.82%, respectively. Seed analysis revealed a crude protein content of 25.45%, corresponding to an estimated energy contribution from protein of 102 kcal. Based on these findings, Vicia sativa L. demonstrates strong potential as a forage crop and a viable alternative for smallholder farmers in the high Andean regions of Ancash, particularly during dry seasons, serving as an economical and accessible protein source for livestock feed.