Effects of autumn cutting on the non-structural carbon and nitrogen content in the root collar of alfalfa

doi:10.11686/cyxb2017116

Abstract

Abstract: To determinate the effect of autumn cutting management on alfalfa (Medicago sativa) growing in sandy soil in Horqin, changes in content of non-structural carbon and nitrogen compounds in the root collar of 8 alfalfa varieties with and without cutting were analyzed. The results showed that the starch and soluble sugar contents without cutting were significantly higher (P<0.05) than those cut at different times. Cutting on the 1st of November (when soil was regularly freezing and thawing) and October 15th resulted in higher free amino acid and soluble protein content compared to no cutting. However, cutting on December 1st (frozen soil) and no cutting resulted in higher free amino acid and soluble protein content than other cutting treatments. The free amino acid content after cutting on October 15th was significantly lower (P<0.05) than the uncut and cutting on October 1st resulted in significantly lower (P<0.05) soluble protein content than uncut plants. Both the free amino acid and soluble protein content with October 1st cutting initially increased, decreased and then stabilized. The different results from these cutting times may be related to alfalfa regrowth after cutting. Soluble sugar, starch, soluble protein, and free amino acid differed varieties, with cutting and without cutting. The C/N ratio without cutting was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that in cut plants. These results suggest that the cold winter temperatures in the Horqin region and the relatively light snow cover reduces transportation of above-ground carbohydrates to roots and that regrowth after cutting utilizes root nutrients. For these reasons, cutting in late autumn should be avoided to ensure sufficient accumulation. Alfalfa varieties with high root C/N content, such as Dongmu No.1, may offer advantages in this environment.

ZHU Ai-min, ZHANG Yu-xia, WANG Xian-guo, TIAN Yong-lei. Effects of autumn cutting on the non-structural carbon and nitrogen content in the root collar of alfalfa[J]. Acta Prataculturae Sinica, 2018, 27(1): 86-96.

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