Seasonal distribution of pasture production in New Zealand XVIII. South Taranaki

Abstract

Abstract Pasture growth rates for 8 years are presented for a site on the Waimate plains of South Taranaki. Yields obtained from grazed permanent pasture were measured with a standardised cutting method using a moveable cage technique. Two cutting intervals were used and the mean yield and standard deviation over all years of measurement are given for standard dates at 14 and 28 day intervals. Growth rates under 28 day cutting intervals were highest in late spring and rapidly declined over summer. Autumn growth rates were reasonably constant, then declined through winter to the lowest growth rates in mid July. Fourteen day growth rates displayed a different pattern — peaking earlier in spring but at lower values — which remained reasonably constant well into summer. Autumn growth rates rose above those from late summer, and then declined in the winter months to similar values as under 28 day cutting. Forty-six per cent and 36% of annual yield occurred in the spring months for 28 and 14 day cutting interva...