Pasture Fertilization Demonstration Trials

Pasture Fertilization Demonstration trials were conducted from 2008 through to 2011. The primary purposes of these demonstration trials were:

to see if there is a visible difference in pasture productivity when commercial fertilizer blends are compared with horse and cattle manure applications,
to compare the timing of fertilizer applications between spring and fall, and
to examine ways to reduce environmental risk when using manure as fertilizer.

Overall the trials were a success! At both sites, the increase in forage productivity from the cattle and horse manure applications was equal or greater to the chemical fertilizer. Although the 34-0-0-11 fertilizer performed well, the custom fertilizer outperformed it by the end of the trial.

The results of the demonstration trial were definitely impacted by the weather. Both of the 2009 and 2010 growing seasons were relatively hot and dry, limiting re-growth of the pasture forage.

Soil testing at the end of the trial indicated that both sites were still very nitrogen deficient. If these pastures are going to be used extensively, additional fertilizer is recommended to achieve optimal pasture productivity. When this is not economically feasible, rotational grazing would more evenly distribute the nutrient deposition from manure and urine. The positive impact that the livestock manures had on the forage vegetation really emphasized that using manure as a fertilizer may ultimately increase pasture production, and thus improve overall economic viability.

Final Report

Brochure

A field day was held at the end of the trials to demonstrate results to local producers.

Soil testing in 2009 for the strip with custom fertilizer applied in the fall.

Photo of strip with horse manure applied in the spring taken in 2011.