However, regular cutting below 50 cm may cause increased mortality and decreased long-term productivity. As with cutting height research studies have recommended a great variety of cutting frequencies. The most common cutting frequencies are 6-18 weeks. Generally, longer cutting frequencies, 12-18 weeks, generate more total biomass but increase the proportion of small wood production. Shorter cutting frequencies, 6-12 weeks, favor fodder yields and fodder quality.
Younger foliage tends to have a higher nutritive value and palatability.
However, repeated cutting after short frequencies decrease longevity. Standard cutting frequencies were developed for tropical conditions and tend to correlate with regrowth heights of 1-2.5 meters. Under arid, sub-humid or temperate conditions regrowth may take longer to reach this height, cutting frequencies may need to be extended. Dry-season fodder production is a main objective of fodder bank management. In areas with severe dry-seasons special management practices should be followed.