Timing and frequency of cuts for different species

Effective cutting schedules are essential for optimising the yield, quality and longevity of multispecies swards. Different species require tailored timings and cutting frequencies to maintain high nutritional value and support regrowth throughout the season.

This includes perennial ryegrass (PRG), timothy and tall fescue. Aim to do the first cut before heading, typically in late spring. Cutting prior to heading maintains higher levels of metabolisable energy (ME), as energy is diverted away from seed production and retained in the forage.

Subsequent cuts should be scheduled every 4–6 weeks, depending on growth and weather. Italian ryegrass may head within 2–3 weeks in dry conditions, while PRG maintains quality longer. In multi-cut systems, a 30-day interval is commonly recommended for optimal balance between yield and quality.

This includes red clover, white clover and lucerne. Make the first cut at the 10% bloom stage to maximise yield, protein and forage quality before energy is redirected into seed production.

For subsequent cuts maintain a 5–6-week interval to allow plants to restore energy reserves and sustain regrowth.

This includes chicory and plantain. Make the first cut at the early flowering stage to retain palatability and support high intake by livestock. Cutting too late reduces quality and intake potential.

Make subsequent cuts every 4–6 weeks, like legumes, to maintain species persistence and forage quality.

Adapting cutting frequency across the seasons ensures optimal regrowth, protects plant health and maximises forage use throughout the year.

Spring – set the tone for the season with an early first cut. Early cuts prevent swards from becoming over-mature, which drastically reduces nutritional value.

Summer – in hot or dry periods, extend cutting intervals to reduce stress, particularly for drought-sensitive species like clover.

Autumn – leave sufficient residual growth to protect roots from winter damage. Avoid cutting too late in the season, which can compromise overwinter survival.