In this study, seed production was determined for subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) plants exposed to no grazing, early season, late season, or extended (early and late season combined) season grazing. Sheep (Ovis aries) grazing increased seed production when grazing occurred just before and during the initial stages of bur filling, which corresponded to the early and extended grazing treatments in the first year of the study and the extended grazing treatment in the second year of the study. The increase in seed production was most likely caused by the reduction in canopy height caused by grazing that allowed more light to be absorbed by the reproductive structures. The authors of the study suggest that managers attempting to maximize seed production in subterranean clover pastures should initiate sheep grazing programs during the appropriate phenological stage determined in this study.
Citations and enhanced abstracts for journals articles and documents focused on rangeland ecology and management. RSIS is a collaboration between Montana State University, University of Idaho, and University of Wyoming.