Perenniality and Development of Shoots of 12 Forage Species in Montana

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the perenniality and development of shoots of two sedges, four grass species of temperate origin, and six grass species of tropical origin. Floral shoots of sedges were at least 3 years old and had remained vegetative the first 2 years. Floral shoots of temperate-origin grasses varied between 2 and 3 years old, and those of tropical-origin, between 1 and 2 years old. By knowing the perenniality of floral shoots, it may be possible to develop management practices to change the ratio of floral to vegetative shoots.