EFFECT OF MINERAL AND ORGANIC FERTILIZATION ON MOUNTAIN MEADOWS YIELD

Resumen

Fertilization is the main factor infuencing meadow yield. Permanent utilization of meadows results in sward degradation depending on the level and type of fertilization, what is shown up by a lower yield level. Therefore, the aim of this work was to estimate the effect of the method and level of fertilization on the yield of mountain meadows. The research was carried out in 2001-2003 on the permanent grassland in Czarny Potok, near Krynica (650 m above sea level). Six fertilizer treatments were applied: mineral fertilization with P20K58, N100P20K58, organic fertilization in the form of loose penning, loose penning supplemented with mineral fertilizers (NPK), tight penning, and a control (not fertilized). Herbage yield ranged between 4.83-9.47 t ha-1 depending on treatment and year. The meadow treated with a PKN mineral fertilizer had the highest average yield (8.35 t ha-1) during the study period, followed by the loose pen supplemented with mineral fertilization NPK. However, the respective value found for the control was 39% lower. It is obvious that fertilization results in the yield growth when compared to non fertilized meadows. In mountain meadows good results can be achieved using loose penning supplemented with mineral fertilization.

Keywords: sheep penning.