Different clipping intensities and intervals were applied to plots of mixed perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and subclover (Trifolium subterraneum) in this study to determine the effects of different grazing management strategies on forage quantity and quality in improved pastures containing these species. Digestible dry matter yield increased with increasing defoliation interval. With the exception of forage digestibility (DMD) in 1980, both digestibility and crude protein content (CPC) of the forage produced decreased linearly as the period between defoliation events increased. Defoliation interval was more important than stubble height and affected forage quantity and quality, in general, as time between clippings increased CPC levels decreased and DMD yield increased. Based on the results of this study, maximum forage quality and yield can be obtained with a 35-49 day interval on perennial ryegrass-subclover pastures, depending on management goals and the most dominant species in the pasture.
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.