This video explains best practices for applying manure to alfalfa and grass meadows.
Why fertilize grasslands?
Forage meadows, such as alfalfa and grasses, export large amounts of nutrients when harvested. It is therefore important to fertilize them to maintain their productivity. Manure is a valuable source of nutrients, but it must be used properly to avoid damaging grasslands.
Different manure application strategies
There are three main strategies for applying manure to grasslands:
Establishment: The manure is applied before the sowing of a new meadow. This provides phosphorus and potassium, which are necessary for plants to establish.
On established crops: Manure is applied to existing grasslands. It is important to respect environmental regulations and to avoid applying manure too close to harvest.
On grasslands at the end of their life: The manure is applied to meadows that will be returned for another crop. It is important to incorporate manure into the soil to avoid nitrogen losses.
Recommendations for the use of manure
Respect environmental rules: It is important not to saturate soils with phosphorus or potassium.
Apply manure at the right time: Manure should be applied at the right time to avoid nitrogen losses. It is generally best applied in spring or fall.
Incorporate manure into the soil: It is important to incorporate manure into the soil to avoid ammonia losses and to make it accessible to plants.
Avoid contact of manure with seeds: Contact of manure with seeds can burn them. It is therefore important to properly incorporate the manure into the soil before sowing.
Impact of manure application on grasslands
The application of manure can have a positive impact on grasslands by increasing yields and improving the quality of fodder. However, it is important to apply it correctly to avoid damaging the meadows.
Conclusion
Manure is an interesting source of nutrients for alfalfa and grass meadows. It is important to use it properly to get the most out of it and to avoid damaging the meadows.
Key points to remember
Manure is an interesting source of nutrients for alfalfa and grass meadows.
There are three main strategies for applying manure to grasslands: establishment, to established crops, and to grasslands at the end of their life.
It is important to respect environmental regulations, apply manure at the right time, incorporate it into the soil, and avoid contact of manure with seeds.
The application of manure can have a positive impact on grasslands by increasing yields and improving the quality of fodder.