The effects of seeding patterns, nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizations on production and botanical composition in lucerne-smooth bromegrass mixtures

Abstract

Lucerne and smooth bromegrass are commonly cultivated in irrigated and dry lands in intercropping systems in the world. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of seeding patterns (mixed, alternative and cross-seeding patterns), nitrogen (0, 60, and 120 kg N ha-1) and phosphorus fertilizer (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg P2O5 ha-1) rates on dry matter yields, botanical composition and crude protein yield of lucerne-smooth bromegrass mixture in an intercropping system. The experiment was established in 2001 and data were collected in dry matter yield and legume ratio for four years (2002-2005) and in crude protein yield for two years (2002-2003). The results showed that the highest dry matter yield was produced by a alternative seeding pattern. However, the highest legume ratio and crude protein yield was produced by mixtures sown in cross seeding pattern. Nitrogen fertilizer application decreased legume ratio but increased crude protein yield. Phosphorus fertilizer application had no effect on dry matter yield, legume ratio or crude protein yield of the lucerne-smooth bromegrass mixtures.