Summer production and survival of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) genotypes in northern Victoria under differing irrigation management

摘要

Perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) is the predominant perennial forage species used in temperate irrigated dairy-production systems in Australia. However, when temperatures are high, even with optimal irrigation strategies and nutrient inputs, dry matter (DM) production can be compromised. This research investigated the effects of perennial ryegrass and tall fescue genotypes and summer irrigation on (DM) production and survival. Ten perennial ryegrass cultivars, three hybrid ryegrasses and two cultivars of tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea (Schreb) Darbysh.) were sown in northern Victoria, Australia, in May 2014, and were managed under full irrigation or restricted irrigation (no irrigation between late December and mid-March) over a 3-year period. Measurements included net pasture accumulation (DM production), sward density (plant frequency) and water-soluble carbohydrate concentration.