Phosphorus Rate Effects on Establishment of Perennial Grasses And on Soil Values at Point MacKenzie

Abstract

This trial concentrates on the effects of varying rates of P with N and K supplied in amounts judged to be ample for establishment of perennial grasses. The results indicated that, by seeding sufficiently early and supplying 90-120 lb P20 5/acre, harvestable amounts of forage could be obtained in the year o f seeding. Reed canarygrass would provide the most forage in the first year; how ever, in previous trials timothy has been more durable and higher yielding over a series of years (Mitchell, in press). Laboratory measurements of crude protein and digestible dry matter indicated the quality of the forage would be good to excellent. The high-yielding reed canarygrass was the lowest in quality but still afforded about 13 per cent crude protein and 60 percent digestible dry matter. The trial is to be continued to determine the cumulative effects of annual fertilizer applications at the same rates on yields and soil test values. A question of immediate concern is the possible effect of promoting high production in the year of establishment on the overwintering characteristics of the grasses.