The response of absolute and relative growth of \u27Grasslands Puna\u27 chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) to defoliation intensity was examined in a glasshouse. Five defoliation intensities (0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mm above media level), at 3 week intervals with 4 replications were arranged in a completely randomised design. The aboveground relative growth rate of Puna chicory increased exponentially as defoliation intensity increased, resulting in defoliation intensity not decreasing average absolute growth rate until weeks 9-12. However, there were significant differences in belowground mass between defoliation intensities from week 6 onwards. Defoliation above 150 mm, with 3 week intervals, is suggested to maintain aboveground absolute growth rate and belowground mass
