Effect of Clipping Interval on Botanical Composition of Subterranean Clover and Its Associated Plants

Abstract

The use of subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) as a livestock feed for range pastures in California is receiving widespread acceptance; best use interval information is needed. A clipping interval of 1-, 2-, 4-, and 6-weeks and no clipping was compared to determine the effect of clipping interval on botanical composition. No consistent difference in the botanical composition of subclover resulted from clipping interval, after the first two years. The unclipped treatment was mostly grass while the composition of subclover diminished each year until none was present in the sixth year. Clipping reduced the percentage of grass and the interval did not make any consistent difference. Composition of forbs in the unclipped treatment was markedly increased by clipping; however, the interval produced no consistent difference. Yields taken in the sixth clipping year showed only minor difference due to clipping interval.