New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research abstracts
Sodium requirements for temperate pastures in New Zealand: a review
D. C. Edmeades
agKnowledge Limited
P.O. Box 9147
Hamilton, New Zealand
M. B. O’Connor
AgResearch Limited
Private Bag 3123
Hamilton, New Zealand
Abstract Sodium (Na) is not an essential plant nutrient
for forage pasture species but is required for optimal animal health and
production. The distribution of Na in New Zealand pastures and soils is reviewed
and evidence discussed indicating that the incidence of Na deficiency in
animals, particularly dairy cows, is likely to increase with time. Vulnerable
regions within New Zealand are identified. The results from New Zealand trials
confirm that animal production responses to Na supplementation or fertiliser
Na are unlikely to occur if the pasture Na concentration is greater than
0.10%. Results from trials examining the effects of Na fertiliser on pasture
production and chemical composition are also reviewed. On soils with adequate
soil potassium, Na has no effect on pasture production and applications of
50-100 kg NaCl/ha are sufficient to increase pasture Na concentration above
the critical level for animal production (0.10% dry matter (DM)), even on
soils with low initial soil Na concentrations (MAF Quick Test (QT) <10,
0.20 cmole Na kg-1). Methods for correcting Na deficiency in animals
are also reviewed.
Keywords animals; fertilisers; pastures; sodium; soil
fertility
A02018 Received 18 March 2002; accepted 3 October 2002; published 26 March
2003
New Zealand Journal of Agricultural Research, 2003, Vol. 46: 37-47
0028-8233/03/4601-0037 $7.00/0 © The Royal Society of New Zealand
2003
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