Description
Alfalfa is the most important cultivated forage crop in Argentina, where about 3 million hectares are grown. Even though the use of direct grazing is coming down during the last 15 years, it is still important for both beef and dairy production. Alfalfa grazing can play an important role in reducing operative costs and decreasing quality loss due to forage conservation (hay or silage). In this paper, the main concepts necessary to implement adequate and practical rotational grazing systems are briefly discussed. Particular attention is given to issues such as grazing frequency, grazing period, pasture use efficiency, and alfalfa quality variation by canopy strata and time of the year. Specific management requirements for beef and dairy operations are also discussed. Argentine experience indicates that is possible to reach high animal response under direct grazing, provided appropriate management practices.
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Grazing Management for Alfalfa Persistence and Productivity in Warm-Climate Regions
Alfalfa is the most important cultivated forage crop in Argentina, where about 3 million hectares are grown. Even though the use of direct grazing is coming down during the last 15 years, it is still important for both beef and dairy production. Alfalfa grazing can play an important role in reducing operative costs and decreasing quality loss due to forage conservation (hay or silage). In this paper, the main concepts necessary to implement adequate and practical rotational grazing systems are briefly discussed. Particular attention is given to issues such as grazing frequency, grazing period, pasture use efficiency, and alfalfa quality variation by canopy strata and time of the year. Specific management requirements for beef and dairy operations are also discussed. Argentine experience indicates that is possible to reach high animal response under direct grazing, provided appropriate management practices.
