Influence of clipping height on neutral carbohydrate levels in root exudates of alfalfa grown gnotobiotically was investigated by gas-chromatographic and mass-spectral techniques. Exudates were obtained from plants that were lightly clipped (removal of flower buds), intermediately clipped (15 cm), and severely clipped (removal of all but four mature leaves). Glucose, inositol, sucrose, and four unidentified (U) components were detected. Fluctuations in the level of sugars were observed in exudates from two sampling periods. Glucose and U1 were most concentrated under light clipping. Levels of inositol and sucrose were maximum under intermediate clipping. Amounts of U3 were greatest from severely clipped plants, whereas levels of U5 remained constant at all cuttings. Concentration of U4 was lowest under severe clipping. U2, present in exudates from seedling plants, was not detected. Quantities of sugars released per gram of dry weight of root tissue were greater under severe clipping. U1 was the major component, with glucose, inositol, and sucrose minor components of the total sugars.
