Seasonal Variations in Protein and Mineral Content of Fringed Sagewort [Artemisia frigida]

Abstract

Fringed sagewort (Artemisia frigida) was collected biweekly from May 15 through October 4, 1979, from a loamy range site near Cheyenne, Wyo. Crude protein, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, sodium, and zinc were determined on the collected plant material. After July 12, leaves and flowers were stripped from the stems and analyzed separately. Crude protein and mineral concentrations in the (fringed sagewort) plant material generally decreased with the advance of the growing season. Except for phosphorus and crude protein content in the stems after late July, the nutritional value was adequate. Fringed sagewort is considered to be of minor importance but is an important forage plant for wildlife and, to a lesser extent, for livestock use.