The respiration drift of harvested pasture plants during drying

Abstract

Abstract Experiments have been carried out to determine the change in the respiration rate of pasture plants after they have been harvested and are being dried. Curves are presented to show that respiration continues throughout most of the drying period although at a progressively slower rate. It appears to cease at about 35% moisture content (dry weight basis). Appreciable losses of dry matter usually accompany this continued respiration especially if drying occurs under warm humid conditions.