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The Mucuna Bracteata in Agricultural Science Directory

Describes the establishment of the legume Mucuna bracteata under Oil Palm in Malaysia. From the trials Mucuna bracteata merits more extensive cultivation. Its desirable characters are that the seed rate is very much lower than conventional cover plants and less labour intensive for planting. The initial three months requires purification of leguminous cover plant. Its vigorous growth coupled with its probable allelopathic property, noxious weeds and grasses are well smothered; thus requiring less maintenance other than monthly circle spraying. M. bracteatas drought and shade tolerance are far superior than conventional covers that poses less of a hazard in the dry weather. It has a high level of phenolic compounds which deters insects and cattle. This perennial leguminous creepers have deep roots and produce significant quantities of litter which decomposes slowly, and increases the fertility of surface soil. At the onset of second year of planting M. bracteata dominated the other two covers in growth and coverage.

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