The yields of extracted leaf protein from lucerne (Medicago sativa L.)

The effects of fertilisers, frequency of cutting, row spacing and simazine on the yields of dry matter and extractable protein from lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) were studied using the laboratory‐scale pulper and press. Between 40 and 65% protein nitrogen was extractable; extractability was not affected by the various treatments but altered with season. Lucerne responded with increased yields of dry matter and extractable protein to fertilisers, simazine (35 g/ha) and rows spaced at 30.5 cm. Six or 8 harvests were found to give greater yields than 5 harvests in 180 days. The annual yields of extractable protein reached 3100 kg/ha and it is felt that better control of pests could lead to even greater yields.