Agronomic and structural responses of stockpiled alfalfa–bermudagrass mixtures

The incorporation of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) into bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] forage systems in the southern US has increased. Stockpiling this mixture may extend grazing season fall and winter months with high-quality forage. objective 2-yr study was to evaluate agronomic structural responses alfalfa-bermudagrass mixtures managed under five stockpiling periods (6, 8, 10, 12, or 14 wk) two locations (Shorter, AL Tifton, GA). Across locations, for 8 wk longer (2,400 lb DM ac−1, on average) resulted greater (P = 0.001) herbage accumulation than 6 (3,185 ac−1). Alfalfa proportion similar among Shorter but 0.043) at 10 6, 12 Tifton. A location × year interaction observed CP < IVTDMD48 0.001). Crude protein concentrations were 2020 both locations. In 2019, however, reduced increasing period length treatments except lesser 14, wk. Forage declined a more pronounced decline 2019. Results suggest that up 8-wk is viable option supply high nutritive value lower lodging losses early months. This article protected by copyright. All rights reserved