The Output of Irish Pastures

In a survey in the West of Scotland, utilized‐starch‐equivalent (U. S.E.) outputs from the grassland of 67 farms, mainly dairy farms, and 9 hill‐grazing units associated with them, were assessed by the farm‐recording method. The limitations and possibilities of the method are discussed. The results obtained were above average, but the farms were a selected group. The wide range of U. S.E. outputs from farms of similar type indicates the scope for improvement on farms with low levels of output. The need for more surveys to clarify existing production levels on commercial farms is emphasized.

Section: The Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

The Assessment of Utilized‐starch‐equivalent (U. S.E.) Output From Farm Grassland by the Farm‐recording Method

Frame

1965

Some Economic Aspects of the Application of Phosphates to Permanent Pastures in Ireland

Neenan

Murphy

Conway

1961

Self Cite

During the years 1957 to 1959 a number of trials carried out at various centres throughout the country showed that the yield of Irish pastures could be greatly increased through the application of fertilizers. Phosphorus increased both yield and the protein content of herbage. The increase in yield was a linear function of the initial P status of the herbage. For the series as a whole, phosphorus increased the yield by approximately 20%, potassium by 7% and phosphorus and nitrogen by 45%. The national and sociological implications of these results are discussed.

The Output of Swards on Commercial Farms in Relation to Fertilizer and Other Management Factors

Baker

1965

Survey data collected during a grassland-recording investigation showed a strong positive correlation between nitrogen input and the output of utilized starch equivalent per acre. At the levels of output covered, sward type was not very important in relation to total yield. Herbage species were important for other reasons and the choice of seeds mixtures should be determined by factors such as earliness and lateness of growth and resistance to disease and drought. The survey showed that well-managed ley and permanent pasture are both capable of producing at a high level. A disturbing feature of the results was the low production of most spring resowings, primarily as a result of poor management. Although the records were obtained from an above-average group of farms, the results have general application. Potential responses to fertilizers may be even greater on less intensive farms, especially with regard to phosphate and potash. However, the level of production of a field will always depend finally on the level of management exercised by the farmer himself.