Nonstructural Carbohydrates in Grazed and Ungrazed Cane Bluestem

Abstract

Trend of carbohydrate reserves, major storage carbohydrates, and primary storage locations were determined in grazed and ungrazed cane bluestem plants. Sucrose was usually the major reserve carbohydrate, and the largest concentration of reserve carbohydrates was in the crown portion of the plant. The total nonstructural carbohydrate (TNC) levels were higher in grazed than in ungrazed plants. The ungrazed plants matured earlier, as indicated by an earlier TNC peak and had lower winter TNC levels. Results indicate that maximum plant vigor can be maintained with a periodic June to November grazing deferment followed by moderate foliage removal.