The influence of time of defoliation on the vigour of a tall grassveld sward in the next season¹

Abstract

Abstract The time of defoliation exercised a significant influence on both the production of the sward and the regrowth potential of Themeda triandra in the season subsequent to treatment. In the spring following treatment the regrowth potential of T. triandra and the actual sward regrowth followed similar trends. Highest spring yields were obtained after a cut during spring and summer while much lower yields were obtained following a cut during autumn and winter.