Response of Yatsyn ryegrass, Matua prairie grass and Wana cocksfoot to phosphorus and potassium

Abstract

At present most pasture fertiliser recommendations are based on the nutrient requirements of perennial ryegrass. The requirements of alternative pasture species are not fully understood and fertiliser is generally applied as for perennial ryegrass. Yatsyn 1 perennial ryegrass, 'Grasslands Matua' prairie grass and 'Grasslands Wana' cocksfoot were grown in sand culture to determine their phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) requirements. Yatsyn and Matna had similar requirements for P and K while Wana required a lower level of K and more P to attain 90% of maximum yield. Magnesium levels in the herbage differed between species and decreased as K applied increased. It is concluded that further studies should be done to more accurately determine the nutrient requirements of alternative pasture species in the field so that accurate and balanced fertiliser applications can be made for alternative pasture species. Keywords phosphorus, potassium, Bromis willdenowii, Lolium perenne, Dactylis glomerata, nutrient requirements