Mineral composition and nutritive value of some common pasture weeds

Abstract

Organic dairy farmers often introduce alternative pasture species such as chicory (Cichorium intybus) and narrowleaved plantain (Plantago lanceolata) to their swards because of their higher mineral contents yet they are concerned about the presence of weed species such as docks (Rumex spp) and dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) The mineral content and nutritive value of both desired and less desired pasture components from an organic dairy farm were analysed and compared Minerals such as magnesium manganese copper zinc boron cobalt and selenium were often significantly higher in species such as chicory narrowleaved plantain dandelion broadleaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius) Californian thistle (Cirsium arvense) and hairy buttercup (Ranunculus sardous) than the perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and white clover (Trifolium repens) components of the sward Likewise the crude protein levels of these species plus Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus) were significantly higher than for perennial ryegrass Implications of these findings are discussed in terms of animal nutrition and health

The Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Common Dandelion Leaves Compared to Sea Buckthorn

“…In this study, the concentration of individual elements depended significantly on the species (Table 3), with the exception of phosphorus, which presented an average of 0.515 g 100 g −1 DM for both analysed species. This level is consistent with the results of Jaroszewska et al (2016), who reported that the leaves of sea buckthorn contained an average phosphorus level of 0.51 g 100 g −1 DM and those given by Harrington et al (2006), who found an average phosphorus content in the leaves of common dandelion of 0.57 g 100 g −1 DM.…”

“…The leaves of dandelion had potassium and calcium levels of 6.51 and 0.67 g 100 g −1 DM, respectively. According to the available data in literature (Harrington et al 2006), dandelion leaves contain an average of 3.43 g potassium and 0.96 g calcium 100 g −1 DM. For perspective, Gallaher et al (2006) showed that 3.5 cups of dandelion infusion provided a good source of potassium (10% daily value).…”

Can differences in <i>Cirsium arvense</i> and <i>Rumex obtusifolius</i> densities within pastures be explained by soil parameters

“…However, another interpretation of the data is that where high densities of the weed were present in the soil, they may have removed certain minerals selectively from the soil to result in lower amounts in surrounding perennial ryegrass. In earlier work conducted at this site, it was found that broad-leaved dock contained much higher quantities of magnesium and manganese than other plant species (Harrington et al 2006). There was a significant negative correlation in the present work between dock density and both of these minerals, suggesting that the results can be explained by depletion of these minerals from the soil by the dock plants.…”

Weed population dynamics for contrasting organic pasture establishment techniques

“…Past results have shown that weed densities decrease 2 years after resowing (Harrington et al 2012). Also, having some of these weed species growing alongside the sown pasture species increases the biodiversity of pastures, and many of the species have high mineral contents and good feed value (Harrington et al 2006). Species with deep root systems, such as docks and couch, may be less likely to die back during drought.…”