EGF 2012 Lublin Poland Grassland – a European Resource ?

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of two grazing regimes: the usual for the area and late spring grazing, and three rates of N fertilisation, on dry-matter (DM) yields and nutritive value in three mountain meadows (Anthemido-Cynosuretum cristati, Gaudinio-Agrostietum cristati and Bromo-Cynosuretum cristati). The results showed that the lowest DM yield was obtained on Bromo-Cynosuretum cristati meadow. Dry matter yields increased significantly with N fertilisation in all meadows, independent of grazing regimes. The highest nutritive values occurred at the beginning of spring, and decreased during the year as a result of maturation. This effect was favoured by N fertilisation and it was independent of grazing regimes. Nutritive values were sufficient to meet the daily requirements of beef cattle during the study.