Long-term effects of improvement methods on Molinia caerulea dominant rough grazing on wet hill land. 2. Mineral composition of herbage and soil physical, chemical and biological characteristics

Abstract

SummaryThe effects of controlled grazing, application of N, P, K, Ca, and Mg and the introduction of grasses and white clover, with and without cultivations, on Molinia caerulea dominant rough hill grazing were studied over 19 years in mid-Wales. Nutrient concentration in, and uptake by, the herbage and changes in soil physical, chemical and biological characteristics were monitored periodically. Concentrations and uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na were highest on the reseeded pastures. Nutrient balance sheets showed that the nutrients applied were most efficiently utilized on reseeded swards. They also highlighted the considerable losses of applied Ca and Mg that occurred.Implications of the results are discussed in relation to both future agricultural use of such areas in the hills and the effects on the environment.