Interaction between chemical nitrogen synthesis and biofertilization: Effects on dry matter yield and quality of Lolium multiflorum Lam.

Abstract

In the Pampean region, low winter temperatures limit forage production from perennial pastures. Due primarily to this thermal factor, production seasonality frequently exhibits a growth variation ratio of 10:1 between the periods of maximum and minimum growth throughout the year (spring and winter, respectively). In some instances, the winter forage deficit may be mitigated or resolved through the use of reserves generated from spring forage surpluses. However, in production systems with high stocking rates and high nutritional requirements, such as dairy and fattening systems, a high proportion of winter annual forages is required within the forage chain to maintain elevated individual production levels even during the winter season.