II. Seasonal growth patterns and effects of cutting frequency and cutting height on yield

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Abstract
Two species of Medicago, 2 species of Trifolium, and Ornithopus sativus, all of which show promise as annual cool-season forage crops, were sown in April 1977 in a small-plot trial close to Kaitaia in Northland. Most of the forage was produced over an 8-week period beginning in early August for the Medicago spp. and Ornithopus, and in early September for T. vesiculosum and T. subterraneum. In a preliminary trial on the same site in 1976, favourable moisture and temperature conditions at planting caused more rapid establishment of these legumes and better production through until early winter, although this had little effect on the spring production patterns of 4 of the species. Early spring production and final yield of T. subterraneum was improved by better establishment. Forage yield of the legumes was maximised by taking a single late cut. Increased cutting frequency and decreased cutting height both normally decreased yield and in combination had a serious effect on some species, particularly M. scutellata. Ornithopus sativus was least affected by cutting frequency and cutting height and showed much the same regrowth ability as ‘Grasslands Tama’ ryegrass. These legumes would likely be best used as wilted and preservative-treated silage cut in late October, or by break grazing in the late September to late October period.

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