Effects of multiple mowing on the regrowth of three types of forage small grains

In this study, using Triticum aestivum (wheat), Arrhenatherum elatius (false oat grass), and Secale cereale (rye), we examined the responses of small grain regeneration and forage quality to multiple cutting and environmental factors. The results revealed that the yields of these three types of small grain following multiple cutting were higher than those obtained in response to a single cut, with that of rye and spring wheat being the highest and lowest, respectively. With respect to small grain forages, the stability of crude ash among these three crops was found to be the best, and that of soluble carbohydrates the worst. The beneficial effects of multiple cutting on the regeneration of the three small grain crops was initially promoted, reaching a maximum at 85 days, and declined thereafter, and regeneration was significantly enhanced (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the rate of small grain growth was found to be significantly positively correlated with the hours of sunshine, precipitation, and relative humidity. Collectively, our findings indicated that cutting small grains two to three times promotes their growth, with higher forage yields of better quality.