Leaf death and decomposition during pasture regrowth

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Abstract
Data are presented that describe the pattern of leaf death per ramet and per unit area. Leaf death per ramet was influenced by the number of leaves that died and the weight of the dead leaves. Leaf weight was important in determining differences in seasonal and species death rate per ramet. Leaf death rates reached a maximum of 56 lb D.M. per acre per day in the spring and 27 lb D.M. per acre per day in the autumn. Losses of green herbage by leaf death finally amounted to from 15 to 40% total production, depending on species and season. Dead leaf decomposed rapidly, only about 20% of leaf fall eventually accumulating as litter. Decomposition rates reached 31 and 17 lb D.M. per acre per day in the spring and autumn respectively.