Low-temperature growth in grasses from northern latitudes

Abstract

Output from grazing animals in Britain could be increased by extending the growing season of grasslands. In particular the growth of hill pasture species is highly seasonal with 75% of annual production occurring in three summer months (Newbould, 1974). Stocking rates, limited by winter carrying capacity, are therefore low and summer leaf production is undergrazed. The consequent accumulation of mature senescing herbage seriously reduces pasture quality (Eadie, 1968). As a result of this and lack of grass growth, ewes are often poorly nourished prior to mating (November) and throughout pregnancy and early lactation. Hence fertility levels and lamb birth weights and growth rates are low, and mortality rates high (Gunn, 1967).