Grazing intensity effects on sward responses of UF Riata Bahiagrass

Abstract Bahiagrass ( Paspalum notatum Flüggé) is a rhizomatous, perennial, warm‐season forage widely grown in the southeastern United States "UF Riata" bahiagrass more upright growing with greater herbage production when days are shorter compared most other cultivars. Lesser daylength sensitivity extends grazing season, but combination growth may negatively affect persistence under grazing, especially if out‐of‐season interferes normal reserve storage. This 3‐year study investigated above and belowground sward responses of UF Riata to three levels post‐grazing mass (HM) (500 [heavy HG], 1500 [moderate grazing], or 2500 [light LG] kg DM ha −1 , where dry matter) imposed by mob stocking every 14 days. Total accumulation (HA) HA rate were not affected treatment. Crude protein (CP) was treatment × cycle year, whereas vitro digestible organic matter concentrations year year. Root–rhizome biomass (12,940–9230 OM soil cover percentage (97%–93%) decreased linearly as intensity increased from LG HG. Proportion non‐planted grasses 34% 17% HG swards, respectively. non‐grass weeds across treatments 2% 22% over years. Moderate could maintain similar CP HG, root–rhizome LG. Thus, considering both nutritive value, target HM ≈1500 recommended pastures grazed 2 weeks.