The determination of pasture yield.

Abstract

The determination of gross yield, directly measured, and of net yield, indirectly calculated, are described and compared. In estimating gross yield, methods independent of farm use, in which fenced-off sections or cages are used, are compared with those dependent on farm use, in which strips are harvested before grazing. The amount of pasture grazed is determined from yields of mown plots before and after grazing by the use of a simple formula which agrees closely with Linehan's logarithmic formula. In calculating the net yield of starch equivalent from grazing time, use is made of Geith's norms for maintenance, production and growth. By using factors which allow for the very variable losses, according to methods of grazing and conservation, net yields can be converted to gross yields of starch equivalent. Fields can be directly compared by the use of standard methods and allowance made for different amounts of N fertilization.-J.F.C. (Abstract retrieved from CAB Abstracts by CABI’s permission)