Effects of late spring burning and nitrogen fertilization on nutritive values of big and little bluestem plants

Abstract

Effects of late spring burning and nitrogen fertilization on nutritive value of Big Bluestem (Andropogon gerardi) and Little Bluestem (Andropogon scoparis) on native rangeland were determined at monthly intervals during the 1972 growing season. Burning significantly decreased dry matter percentage, crude fiber, cell walls, and lignin. Fertilization did not significantly influence any of those factors except for increasing lignin slightly. Big Bluestem had significantly less crude fiber, cells walls, and lignin than Little Bluestem.