Long-term nitrogen fertilization in native pasture with Italian ryegrass introduction - Effects on soil health attribute indicators

Abstract

Native pastures are of great importance for cattle and sheep nutrition in the Pampa biome. However, due to its low productivity, the Italian ryegrass introduction and the nitrogen (N) fertilization are alternatives proposed to intensify livestock production in a sustainable manner. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of long-term N application on soil health indicators in a native pasture with Italian ryegrass introduction in southern Brazil. The experiment consists of a secondary native pasture under continuous grazing and constant herbage allowance. In 1996 experimental area was broadcast limed and the experiment was initiated, testing three N topdressing rates (0, 100 and 200kg N ha-1 year-1). In 2010 soil of experimental and reference area of non grazed native grassland was sampled in the soil layers of 0-20 and 20-40cm. Total, particulate and mineral associated carbon (C) and N stocks were evaluated. Soil microbiological attributes were evaluated in 0-5 and 5-10cm soil layers. The long-term N fertilization in soils with native pasture and Italian ryegrass introduction did not affect total C and N stocks. However, increases in N particulate fraction were seen with 100kg ha-1 year-1 of N rate of fertilization. Furthermore, the increase in N rates increased N microbial biomass and respiration.