Pasture establishment on a podzolised soil in Northland

Abstract

Summary Trials were conducted on a strongly podzolised soil, Wharekohe silt loam, to detcrmine nutrient deficiencies hindering the establishment of clovers. White and subterranean clovers were used as indicator plants. Phosphate deficiency is acute, and 4 cwt per acre of superphosphate at sowing is inadequate. High rates of lime are necessary to ensure good nodulation and vigorous early growth. Liming can induce a boron deficiency and at higher levels a copper deficiency. The quantities of lime adequate to establish pastures successfully are not likely to induce a copper deficiency. Boron deficiency in white clover is not likely to appear after initial application of lime but may do so after subsequent liming. Boron deficiency symptoms exhibited by the leaves. roots, and nodulation of subterranean clover are described. This clover is more susceptible to boron deficiency than is white clover. Lime-pelleted clover seeds should be most effective in supplying adequate lime for good noduhtion, without inducing a boron deficiency. White clover can be successfully established, provided adequate phosphate, potassium, and lime are supplied. Subterranean clover is more difficult to establish, and the necessary conditions for successful establishment have not been defined. A magnesium deficiency may appear after some years.