Burning and grazing of a Themeda grassland: Estimates of phytomass and root element concentrations

Abstract

Burning and grazing of highland grasses were examined in Döhne Sourveld to determine the effects on shoot and root masses. Root:shoot ratios of 1:4 and 1:3 were obtained for quadrennial and biennial burns respectively after two years of growth. The ratio in summer grazed plots and undisturbed controls was 1:1,25. This high ratio was considered a sign of stress and seen as a geophytic response by the grasses.