Effects of stage of growth, season, and conservation method on the nutritive value of lucerne

J.P. Joyce and L.C.F. Brunswick

Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre, Hamilton

E-Mail:

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1975, 35: 152-158

Lucerne was harvested at Taupo at three stages of growth during the spring, summer and autumn periods. Each cut was conserved either in green-frozen, wilted silage, high moisture silage or hay forms. All feeds (16 in total) were evaluated in a 90-day comparative slaughter trial with sheep.

The effects of stage of growth, season and conservation method on the nutritive value of lucerne are presented and discussed with particular reference to voluntary intake and energy utilization.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;

Last Updated 24-08-2000