Fertiliser requirements of lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) under a haying regime on North Island sand country

摘要

Abstract Two trials are reported in which the fertiliser requirements of lucerne under a haying regime on sand country were examined. Lime, phosphorus, potassium, and possibly boron pave a positive response. To maintain an annual production of about 15 000 kg/ha dry matter, 40 kg/ha/year P (450 kg/ha/year superphosphate), and 1700 kg/ha calcium carbonate (2 t/ha lime) in alternate years, are recommended. A pH of 6 is suggested as optimum. Insufficient information was obtained to give a potassium recommendation, 0.5 kg/ha boron added in late spring may be advantageous.