Eragrostis curvula in pots was cut every 2, 3, 4, 6, or 12 weeks, for 12 weeks. Regrowth and the recovery of total available carbohydrates (TAC) in the next 7 weeks was measured weekly. The regrowth (dry?matter yield) of tops was progressively less with increasing frequency of defoliation. After the defoliation period the root weights decreased in the more lenient treatments, The crowns did not show this marked initial decrease, but increased steadily in weight. Immediately after the last defoliation, the TAC content of the roots and crowns decreased significantly, and it was not restored to the level observed at the last cut until the third week after defoliation. A comparison of average relative growth rates of tops revealed that during the first three weeks after the last defoliation the highest values were obtained from plants defoliated least frequently. For this period there was a significant correlation between average grwoth rate and reserve status. The results indicate that the plants drew on their carbohydrate reserves for at least a short period during regrowth.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.