Abstract
Seminatural meadows are characterized by a rich botanical composition, which determines their specific type. The content of macro- and micro minerals in sward seems important for ruminant farmers. The aim of the study was to determine the content of macro- and micro minerals in the sward of selected meadow types. The study was carried out in SE Poland from May to July in the years 2010–2017. The relationship between the content of each of the studied elements (N, P, K, Mg, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn) in soil and plants was investigated, as well as whether there were differences between the average content of elements in the sward of different types of meadows. In some types of meadows there was a correlation for K, Fe, Cu, Mg and Mn. The largest differences in the content of macro minerals in the sward were found for Mg (44%) and K (42%), and in the case of micro minerals for Mn (56%). Large differences resulted primarily from different plant species; composition forming a given meadow community and not the content of these elements in the soil. The results can be applied to the proper management of farms, especially organic ones.
Highlights
In 2016, total utilized agricultural area (UAA) in the EU-28 reached approximately 179 million ha, of which 6.7% constituted organic farming
About 34% of total UAA in the EU-28 was used as permanent grasslands and meadows [1]
Grasses are a basic component of the sward of seminatural meadows and pastures, as the grass research shows, they contain less macro- and micro minerals than legumes and herbs [6,7]
Summary
In 2016, total utilized agricultural area (UAA) in the EU-28 reached approximately 179 million ha, of which 6.7% constituted organic farming. About 34% of total UAA in the EU-28 was used as permanent grasslands and meadows [1]. It is estimated that grasslands occupy 40% of the area worldwide [2]. In addition to playing a part in the production of milk and meat, meadows and pastures are a characteristic element of European cultural landscapes and greatly contribute to the protection of biodiversity [3,4,5]. Grasses are a basic component of the sward of seminatural meadows and pastures, as the grass research shows, they contain less macro- and micro minerals than legumes and herbs [6,7]
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