Abstract
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is the basic forage resource for milk production in the flat Pampa of the Santa Fe Province of Argentina. However, the presence of microrelief with patches threatens the expansion of the area cultivated with alfalfa. The lower productivity in the patches is attributed to the inferior soil physical quality. The objectives of this study were to quantify indicators of soil physical quality and to establish the soil properties that would affect the alfalfa productivity in patches (PA) and normal areas (NA). Additionally, the macro and micro nutrient contents in both areas were determined. The experiment was carried out on an Aquic Argiudoll. Eighteen sampling sites, nine in NA and nine in PA were established. At each site, undisturbed soil samples (5 × 5 cm cores) were collected to measure soil bulk density (Bd), soil resistance to root penetration (PR), effective stress (σ), the water release curve and the least limiting water range (LLWR). Disturbed soil samples were also taken to determine macro and micronutrient contents, and particle size distribution. Non differences were detected for soil chemical properties between PA and NA. Aggregate size distribution indicated predominance of small aggregates in PA. Bd, PR and s were higher in PA than in NA, while the LLWR was narrower. Inadequate aeration under conditions of excessive soil moisture and inappropriate soil mechanical resistance when the soil is dry would affect alfalfa productivity. The overall results indicate that the soil physical quality in PA is lower than in NA.
Highlights
Milk production in the flat Pampa of Santa Fe Province, Argentina, is characterized by the permanence of animals at the fields and the by use of a short-duration grazing system with alfalfa (Medicago sativa) due to its high dry matter yield and good nutritional quality (Comeron and Romero, 2007; Juan et al, 1995)
All values are within the nutrient sufficiency range
Differences in soil chemical fertility can not be considered the reason for alfalfa lower productivity in patches
Summary
Milk production in the flat Pampa of Santa Fe Province, Argentina, is characterized by the permanence of animals at the fields and the by use of a short-duration grazing system with alfalfa (Medicago sativa) due to its high dry matter yield and good nutritional quality (Comeron and Romero, 2007; Juan et al, 1995). The presence of sectors with lower plant development in the fields threatens the expansion of the cultivated areas with alfalfa. Some researchers have associated patches with management issues, presence of salt and sodium and depressed microrelief (Bonadeo et al, 2006; Panigatti et al, 1971; Romero et al, 2000). Another possibility may be related to soil structure degradation inr the patches
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
