Response of eragrostis curvula to differences in the seasonal distribution of nitrogen fertiliser

Abstract

The seasonal distribution of nitrogen fertiliser to Eragrostis curvula pastures at two sites in Natal did not exert much influence on forage production when large quantities were applied over the season (250 kg N/ha/a). However, when levels of nitrogen were relatively low (160 kg N/ha/a), production was most economic when a relatively large proportion of this amount was applied early in the season (June), with a declining proportion being applied in early‐ and midsummer.