Effect of Burning and Clipping on Big Bluestem Reserve Carbohydrates

Abstract

Carbohydrate content of rhizomes and stem bases of big bluestem (Andropogon gerardi Vitman) at different times during the growing season were measured on plots with different clipping and burning treatments. Big bluestem on plots burned May 1 had higher herbage yields, percent nitrogen, and total nitrogen in forage than that on unburned plots. Rapid vegetative growth during mid-July reduced carbohydrate percentages in rhizomes and stem bases of big bluestem. Burning did not affect final storage of carbohydrate on unclipped plots, but, in general, it reduced carbohydrate reserves on clipped plots. Late season clipping reduced carbohydrate reserves more than early season clipping.