Background:This study used an online survey to explore the perspectives,practices and knowledge gaps of Irish farmers regarding the adoption of multispecies swards(MSS),a sustainable alternative to traditional monocul...Background:This study used an online survey to explore the perspectives,practices and knowledge gaps of Irish farmers regarding the adoption of multispecies swards(MSS),a sustainable alternative to traditional monoculture grassland systems.With ruminant livestock production being central to global agricultural gross domestic product and Ireland's reliance on grassbased systems,MSS offer potential benefits for productivity,sustainability and environmental impact.However,farm-level data on MSS adoption are limited.Methods:An adapted version of Rogers'Innovation Decision Process model was used to examine farmers'awareness,adoption drivers,perceived benefits,barriers and knowledge needs related to MSS.Results:Among 200 Irish farmers surveyed between October 2023 and March 2024,93%were aware of MSS and 57%had adopted it.Reported benefits included improved biodiversity,soil health,drought resilience and reduced nitrogen use,with 91%of adopters lowering fertiliser inputs.Key barriers were difficulties with establishment,grazing management,weed control and uncertainty about seed mixtures.Farmers expressed a need for more guidance on persistence and management and preferred learning via open days and discussion groups.Conclusions:The findings highlight the need for tailored support to facilitate MSS adoption.Future initiatives should prioritise peer learning,demonstration farms and practical guidance on establishment and grazing.展开更多
Background Recently,there has been increasing interest in the use of multispecies(MS)swards in dairy grazing systems.Methods A plot grazing study was established to investigate the potential contribution of different ...Background Recently,there has been increasing interest in the use of multispecies(MS)swards in dairy grazing systems.Methods A plot grazing study was established to investigate the potential contribution of different sward species(perennial ryegrass,legumes and herbs)sown in grazing pastures.Ten sward mixtures were sown,ranging in complexity from a perennial ryegrass(PRG)monoculture to binary mixtures including either forage legumes or herbs to a five-species mixture;four different nitrogen(N)application rates of 0,100,150 and 200 kg N ha−1 were applied to each sward.Results Species abundance for all sward species components was associated with the interaction of time point and sward mixture;species abundance for all sward components,except PRG,was associated with the interaction of N application and sward mixture.The interactions of time point and sward mixture,and time point and N application rate,were associated with all analysed sward chemical components,except for sward digestibility.Conclusions Increased N application rates reduced the level of clover in all sward mixtures.Increased levels of white clover led to increased sward crude protein levels;the inclusion of ribwort plantain led to some seasonal variation in the nutritive value of swards.展开更多
Effects of transplanted seedling density and species on sward structure of native warm-season grass (NWSG) stands were compared in a randomized complete block design. About 6-week-old NWSG (big bluestem (BB, Andropogo...Effects of transplanted seedling density and species on sward structure of native warm-season grass (NWSG) stands were compared in a randomized complete block design. About 6-week-old NWSG (big bluestem (BB, Andropogon gerardii Vitman), eastern gamagrass (GG, Tripsacum dactyloides L.), indiangrass [IG, Sorghastrum nutans (L.) Nash] and switchgrass (SG, Panicum virgatum) seedlings were transplanted in 45-cm wide rows on clean-tilled seedbeds. Within-row spacing was 30, 25, or, 20 cm giving 10, 12, and 15 plants m-2 as low, medium, and high seedling density, respectively. During establishment, the stands were allowed uninterrupted first year growth without fertilizers or irrigation but when necessary, tall-growing broadleaf weeds were mechanically removed. In the following spring, all dead standing biomass was mowed down to allow emerging tillers access to sunlight. During the second year after planting, early-spring basal diameters, row-length intercepted by the NWSG crowns, mid-summer sward heights, and percentage bare ground were determined. From the second June after planting, and for two consecutive years, plots were harvested twice year-1 to assess forage biomass. Data showed that, unlike species, seedling density had no effect on the assessed parameters. Cumulative forage biomass, in kg DM ha-1, was the least for GG (4901) at low and the most (18,245) for SG at high seedling density during the second year. Corresponding values for the third year were 4500 and 7799 kg DM ha-1. Basal diameters ranged from 18 cm (BB) to 24 cm (IG) while percent row intercepts were from 6 (GG) to 46 (IG) with sward heights measuring 41 cm (IG) to 54 cm (GG). In each stand, percent ground cover by the NWSGs, and at every seedling density, averaged 60.5. Transplanting at ≥10 plant m-2 resulted in harvest-ready stands by the second year of establishment. And while close spacing favored the NWSGs against weeds, data showed that an initial plant density of >10 plants m-2 may not result in increased forage production worthy the additional establishment cost. Data on response to fertility management and forage quality attributes are necessary for more reliable practical recommendations.展开更多
This study evaluated the nutritional characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars subjected to three cutting intensities in the course of one year. The experiment was conducted at the University of Rio Verde. The...This study evaluated the nutritional characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars subjected to three cutting intensities in the course of one year. The experiment was conducted at the University of Rio Verde. The experiment was performed as a randomized 3 × 3 factorial in complete block design with three replications and repeated measures in the time. Three Brachiaria brizantha cultivars (Marandu palisadegrass, Xaraes palisadegrass, and Piata palisadegrass), were tested at three cutting intensities (10, 20, and 30 cm sward height). The evaluations were conducted on the same plots throughout one year and during all four seasons (autumn, winter, spring, and summer). The results showed that the Piata palisadegrass had the best chemical composition compared to the Marandu palisadegrass and Xaraes palisadegrass. The management of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars at the lowest residual height (10 cm) affected the nutritional value of these feed grasses. Seasonality also influenced the nutritional value of these forages.展开更多
The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of mechanical perforation of a golf course grassy sward, subject to maintenance machinery traffic and golf players trampling on its compaction and density. The evolutio...The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of mechanical perforation of a golf course grassy sward, subject to maintenance machinery traffic and golf players trampling on its compaction and density. The evolution of soil compaction state after aeration was also conducted in four stages of measurement. This operation aims to improve the structure and soil texture, which is also called ＂perforation＂ or ＂coring＂. The taken cores leaving on the soil holes of adjustable depth and density （350 holes/mE） are made with an aerator machine called Vertidrain. Soil resistance to penetration and density were determined at the initial state before aeration as well as 10, 20, and 30 days after aeration. Compared to the initial state, the results show that mechanical aeration greatly affects the grassy sward ground by reducing its resistance to penetration as 35% and 43% decrease in penetration resistance were noticed at 5 cm depth l0 and 20 days after aeration, respectively. Also, resistance to penetration decreased by 41% and 48% at 15 cm depth during the same two periods of time with a relatively constant moisture content. However, soil resistance to penetration at 5 and 15 cm depths only decreased by 21% and 26%, respectively. Regarding the soil density measured after aeration, a significant improvement at the 1% level with the method of variance analysis was observed compared to that at the initial state （e.g. 1.33 g·cm^-3） Indeed, the density was 1.29, 1.26 and 1.30 gcm^-3 10, 20 and 30 days after aeration, respectively.展开更多
In a golf course located at El Kantaoui, Sousse, Tunisia, this study was carried out over a sandy soil grassy sward to investigate the effects of mechanical aeration （perforation of the sward with an aerators machine...In a golf course located at El Kantaoui, Sousse, Tunisia, this study was carried out over a sandy soil grassy sward to investigate the effects of mechanical aeration （perforation of the sward with an aerators machine called ＂Vertidrain＂） on its compaction and hydraulic conductivity. For this purpose, many soil cores were extracted using a 1.6 e.g. m effective width Verti-Drain aerator equipped with hollow spades spaced 65 e.g. mm apart. Aeration was performed at a rate of 350 holes/m2. Soil resistance to penetration and permeability were determined at the initial state before aeration as well as 10, 20, and 30 days after aeration. Compared to the initial state, the results showed that mechanical aeration greatly affects the grassy sward ground by reducing its resistance to penetration as 35% and 43% decrease in penetration resistance were noticed at 5 e.g. cm depth 10 and 20 days after aeration, respectively. Also, resistance to penetration decreased by 41% and 48% at 15 e.g. cm depth during the same two periods of time with a relatively constant moisture content. However, soil resistance to penetration at 5 and 15 e.g. cm depths only decreased by 21% and 26%, respectively. Regarding the soil hydraulic conductivity measured after aeration, a significant improvement at the 1% level with the method of variance analysis, was observed compared to that at the initial state （4.9 e.g. cm hl）. Indeed, the hydraulic conductivity was 12.5, 13, and 14.1 e.g. cm h-1 10, 20, and 30 days after aeration, respectively.展开更多
Background:Meadow fescue(Schedonorus pratensis(Huds.)P.Beauv.)is a reemerging pasture grass for temperate regions of North America.One disadvantage of this species is its lack of tolerance to frequent defoliation at l...Background:Meadow fescue(Schedonorus pratensis(Huds.)P.Beauv.)is a reemerging pasture grass for temperate regions of North America.One disadvantage of this species is its lack of tolerance to frequent defoliation at low residual sward heights.This experiment was designed to conduct one cycle of selection and evaluation for persistence under frequent defoliation.Methods:The experiment included four locations with intensive grazing:two on silt loam soils and two on loamy sand soils.A fifth location was managed with frequent mowing to a 5-cm residual sward height,approximately 12-15 mowings per year.One cycle of selection was conducted with a population size of 1000 plants and 20 plants were selected for survivorship and vigor.Seed of all selected populations was evaluated at all five selection locations.Results:Gains were made in all eight populations,both due to increases in endophyte infection frequency and genetic gains associated with improved host genotypes.Selection was successful on both silt loam and loamy sand soils,but none of those gains were realized on the alternate soil type.Selection was successful at two of the four grazing farms,the two located on silt loam soils,but these gains were not realized on the farms with loamy sand soils or under the frequent mowing method of defoliation.Conclusions:Selection for tolerance to intensive grazing should be conducted under grazing conditions and selection for adaptation to both sandy and silt loam soils will require a more complex and imaginative selection scheme.展开更多
Background:Monitoring genome size variance is essential in plant breeding for maintaining and improving plant varieties,as well as in studies of natural grasslands.There is still limited cytological data available,suc...Background:Monitoring genome size variance is essential in plant breeding for maintaining and improving plant varieties,as well as in studies of natural grasslands.There is still limited cytological data available,such as DNA quantity or ploidy level,for temperate grass species of swards.Methods:We performed a flow cytometric genome size analysis on propidium iodide-labeled nuclei from 16 accessions of 13 perennial grass species,using pea seedlings as a control for genome size.Results:The 2 C genome size range of the investigated perennial grass accessions was more than fivefold,ranging from 4.31 to 22.69 pg DNA per nucleus.For four accessions with known ploidy levels,our measured genome sizes matched the data reported in the referenced sources.We also estimated the ploidy level of four accessions with unknown status by comparing our genome size results with existing data.We present the previously established ploidy status along with the 2 C DNA results for Agrostis gigantea Roth and Festuca valesiaca Schleich.ex Gaudin for the first time.Conclusions:An expanded genome size database would enable the rapid determination of the so-called DNA ploidy of taxa with unknown cytogenetic status.展开更多
Background:Limited information is available regarding the nutritive value and structural characteristics of multispecies swards when rotationally grazed.Methods:Three farmlet types were investigated in terms of their ...Background:Limited information is available regarding the nutritive value and structural characteristics of multispecies swards when rotationally grazed.Methods:Three farmlet types were investigated in terms of their nutritive value:Lolium perenne(LP);L.perenne+Trifolium repens(LP+TR);and a multispecies sward containing grasses,legumes and herbs(MSS).Farmlets were stocked with beef steers(2.5 livestock units ha−1),grazed on a 1 ha scale to 6 cm(MSS)and 4 cm(LP and LP+TR)residuals.Results:A greater ash concentration was found in MSS than LP(84 vs.75 g kg−1 DM).Both LP+TR and MSS had higher crude protein and lower neutral detergent fibre concentrations than LP.The relative ranking of water soluble carbohydrate and dry matter(DM)concentration was LP>LP+TR>MSS.Despite the leaf component of the LP farmlet contributing more to herbage DM,the organic matter digestibilities of the swards were similar.Conclusions:The MSS and LP+TR farmlets achieved similar forage quality under intensive grazing to LP.However,it is worth noting that MSS had a higher concentration of acid detergent lignin,which can negatively impact digestibility.Further investigation is needed to determine optimal grazing management practices that can minimise the effects of higher lignin concentration on digestibility in multispecies swards.展开更多
基金Department of Agriculture,Environment and Rural Affairs,UK Government,Grant/Award Numbers:2021R456,Multi4MoreDepartment of Agriculture,Food and the Marine,Ireland,Grant/Award Numbers:2021R456,Multi4More。
文摘Background:This study used an online survey to explore the perspectives,practices and knowledge gaps of Irish farmers regarding the adoption of multispecies swards(MSS),a sustainable alternative to traditional monoculture grassland systems.With ruminant livestock production being central to global agricultural gross domestic product and Ireland's reliance on grassbased systems,MSS offer potential benefits for productivity,sustainability and environmental impact.However,farm-level data on MSS adoption are limited.Methods:An adapted version of Rogers'Innovation Decision Process model was used to examine farmers'awareness,adoption drivers,perceived benefits,barriers and knowledge needs related to MSS.Results:Among 200 Irish farmers surveyed between October 2023 and March 2024,93%were aware of MSS and 57%had adopted it.Reported benefits included improved biodiversity,soil health,drought resilience and reduced nitrogen use,with 91%of adopters lowering fertiliser inputs.Key barriers were difficulties with establishment,grazing management,weed control and uncertainty about seed mixtures.Farmers expressed a need for more guidance on persistence and management and preferred learning via open days and discussion groups.Conclusions:The findings highlight the need for tailored support to facilitate MSS adoption.Future initiatives should prioritise peer learning,demonstration farms and practical guidance on establishment and grazing.
基金The authors would like to thank the Moorepark farm and grassland laboratory staff,in particular,Andy McGrath,Pat O'Connor,David Flynn and Michelle Liddane,for their help with data collection and processing.The authors would also like to acknowledge the support of the Teagasc Walsh Scholarship scheme and University College Dublin,along with the financial support of VistaMilk(16/RC/3835),which facilitated the current study.
文摘Background Recently,there has been increasing interest in the use of multispecies(MS)swards in dairy grazing systems.Methods A plot grazing study was established to investigate the potential contribution of different sward species(perennial ryegrass,legumes and herbs)sown in grazing pastures.Ten sward mixtures were sown,ranging in complexity from a perennial ryegrass(PRG)monoculture to binary mixtures including either forage legumes or herbs to a five-species mixture;four different nitrogen(N)application rates of 0,100,150 and 200 kg N ha−1 were applied to each sward.Results Species abundance for all sward species components was associated with the interaction of time point and sward mixture;species abundance for all sward components,except PRG,was associated with the interaction of N application and sward mixture.The interactions of time point and sward mixture,and time point and N application rate,were associated with all analysed sward chemical components,except for sward digestibility.Conclusions Increased N application rates reduced the level of clover in all sward mixtures.Increased levels of white clover led to increased sward crude protein levels;the inclusion of ribwort plantain led to some seasonal variation in the nutritive value of swards.
文摘Effects of transplanted seedling density and species on sward structure of native warm-season grass (NWSG) stands were compared in a randomized complete block design. About 6-week-old NWSG (big bluestem (BB, Andropogon gerardii Vitman), eastern gamagrass (GG, Tripsacum dactyloides L.), indiangrass [IG, Sorghastrum nutans (L.) Nash] and switchgrass (SG, Panicum virgatum) seedlings were transplanted in 45-cm wide rows on clean-tilled seedbeds. Within-row spacing was 30, 25, or, 20 cm giving 10, 12, and 15 plants m-2 as low, medium, and high seedling density, respectively. During establishment, the stands were allowed uninterrupted first year growth without fertilizers or irrigation but when necessary, tall-growing broadleaf weeds were mechanically removed. In the following spring, all dead standing biomass was mowed down to allow emerging tillers access to sunlight. During the second year after planting, early-spring basal diameters, row-length intercepted by the NWSG crowns, mid-summer sward heights, and percentage bare ground were determined. From the second June after planting, and for two consecutive years, plots were harvested twice year-1 to assess forage biomass. Data showed that, unlike species, seedling density had no effect on the assessed parameters. Cumulative forage biomass, in kg DM ha-1, was the least for GG (4901) at low and the most (18,245) for SG at high seedling density during the second year. Corresponding values for the third year were 4500 and 7799 kg DM ha-1. Basal diameters ranged from 18 cm (BB) to 24 cm (IG) while percent row intercepts were from 6 (GG) to 46 (IG) with sward heights measuring 41 cm (IG) to 54 cm (GG). In each stand, percent ground cover by the NWSGs, and at every seedling density, averaged 60.5. Transplanting at ≥10 plant m-2 resulted in harvest-ready stands by the second year of establishment. And while close spacing favored the NWSGs against weeds, data showed that an initial plant density of >10 plants m-2 may not result in increased forage production worthy the additional establishment cost. Data on response to fertility management and forage quality attributes are necessary for more reliable practical recommendations.
文摘This study evaluated the nutritional characteristics of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars subjected to three cutting intensities in the course of one year. The experiment was conducted at the University of Rio Verde. The experiment was performed as a randomized 3 × 3 factorial in complete block design with three replications and repeated measures in the time. Three Brachiaria brizantha cultivars (Marandu palisadegrass, Xaraes palisadegrass, and Piata palisadegrass), were tested at three cutting intensities (10, 20, and 30 cm sward height). The evaluations were conducted on the same plots throughout one year and during all four seasons (autumn, winter, spring, and summer). The results showed that the Piata palisadegrass had the best chemical composition compared to the Marandu palisadegrass and Xaraes palisadegrass. The management of Brachiaria brizantha cultivars at the lowest residual height (10 cm) affected the nutritional value of these feed grasses. Seasonality also influenced the nutritional value of these forages.
文摘The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of mechanical perforation of a golf course grassy sward, subject to maintenance machinery traffic and golf players trampling on its compaction and density. The evolution of soil compaction state after aeration was also conducted in four stages of measurement. This operation aims to improve the structure and soil texture, which is also called ＂perforation＂ or ＂coring＂. The taken cores leaving on the soil holes of adjustable depth and density （350 holes/mE） are made with an aerator machine called Vertidrain. Soil resistance to penetration and density were determined at the initial state before aeration as well as 10, 20, and 30 days after aeration. Compared to the initial state, the results show that mechanical aeration greatly affects the grassy sward ground by reducing its resistance to penetration as 35% and 43% decrease in penetration resistance were noticed at 5 cm depth l0 and 20 days after aeration, respectively. Also, resistance to penetration decreased by 41% and 48% at 15 cm depth during the same two periods of time with a relatively constant moisture content. However, soil resistance to penetration at 5 and 15 cm depths only decreased by 21% and 26%, respectively. Regarding the soil density measured after aeration, a significant improvement at the 1% level with the method of variance analysis was observed compared to that at the initial state （e.g. 1.33 g·cm^-3） Indeed, the density was 1.29, 1.26 and 1.30 gcm^-3 10, 20 and 30 days after aeration, respectively.
文摘In a golf course located at El Kantaoui, Sousse, Tunisia, this study was carried out over a sandy soil grassy sward to investigate the effects of mechanical aeration （perforation of the sward with an aerators machine called ＂Vertidrain＂） on its compaction and hydraulic conductivity. For this purpose, many soil cores were extracted using a 1.6 e.g. m effective width Verti-Drain aerator equipped with hollow spades spaced 65 e.g. mm apart. Aeration was performed at a rate of 350 holes/m2. Soil resistance to penetration and permeability were determined at the initial state before aeration as well as 10, 20, and 30 days after aeration. Compared to the initial state, the results showed that mechanical aeration greatly affects the grassy sward ground by reducing its resistance to penetration as 35% and 43% decrease in penetration resistance were noticed at 5 e.g. cm depth 10 and 20 days after aeration, respectively. Also, resistance to penetration decreased by 41% and 48% at 15 e.g. cm depth during the same two periods of time with a relatively constant moisture content. However, soil resistance to penetration at 5 and 15 e.g. cm depths only decreased by 21% and 26%, respectively. Regarding the soil hydraulic conductivity measured after aeration, a significant improvement at the 1% level with the method of variance analysis, was observed compared to that at the initial state （4.9 e.g. cm hl）. Indeed, the hydraulic conductivity was 12.5, 13, and 14.1 e.g. cm h-1 10, 20, and 30 days after aeration, respectively.
基金Agricultural Research Service,Grant/Award Number:5090-21000-065-00D。
文摘Background:Meadow fescue(Schedonorus pratensis(Huds.)P.Beauv.)is a reemerging pasture grass for temperate regions of North America.One disadvantage of this species is its lack of tolerance to frequent defoliation at low residual sward heights.This experiment was designed to conduct one cycle of selection and evaluation for persistence under frequent defoliation.Methods:The experiment included four locations with intensive grazing:two on silt loam soils and two on loamy sand soils.A fifth location was managed with frequent mowing to a 5-cm residual sward height,approximately 12-15 mowings per year.One cycle of selection was conducted with a population size of 1000 plants and 20 plants were selected for survivorship and vigor.Seed of all selected populations was evaluated at all five selection locations.Results:Gains were made in all eight populations,both due to increases in endophyte infection frequency and genetic gains associated with improved host genotypes.Selection was successful on both silt loam and loamy sand soils,but none of those gains were realized on the alternate soil type.Selection was successful at two of the four grazing farms,the two located on silt loam soils,but these gains were not realized on the farms with loamy sand soils or under the frequent mowing method of defoliation.Conclusions:Selection for tolerance to intensive grazing should be conducted under grazing conditions and selection for adaptation to both sandy and silt loam soils will require a more complex and imaginative selection scheme.
文摘Background:Monitoring genome size variance is essential in plant breeding for maintaining and improving plant varieties,as well as in studies of natural grasslands.There is still limited cytological data available,such as DNA quantity or ploidy level,for temperate grass species of swards.Methods:We performed a flow cytometric genome size analysis on propidium iodide-labeled nuclei from 16 accessions of 13 perennial grass species,using pea seedlings as a control for genome size.Results:The 2 C genome size range of the investigated perennial grass accessions was more than fivefold,ranging from 4.31 to 22.69 pg DNA per nucleus.For four accessions with known ploidy levels,our measured genome sizes matched the data reported in the referenced sources.We also estimated the ploidy level of four accessions with unknown status by comparing our genome size results with existing data.We present the previously established ploidy status along with the 2 C DNA results for Agrostis gigantea Roth and Festuca valesiaca Schleich.ex Gaudin for the first time.Conclusions:An expanded genome size database would enable the rapid determination of the so-called DNA ploidy of taxa with unknown cytogenetic status.
基金Department of Agriculture,Food and the Marine Research,Irish Government,Grant/Award Number:RSF 17/S/267:SMARTSWARD。
文摘Background:Limited information is available regarding the nutritive value and structural characteristics of multispecies swards when rotationally grazed.Methods:Three farmlet types were investigated in terms of their nutritive value:Lolium perenne(LP);L.perenne+Trifolium repens(LP+TR);and a multispecies sward containing grasses,legumes and herbs(MSS).Farmlets were stocked with beef steers(2.5 livestock units ha−1),grazed on a 1 ha scale to 6 cm(MSS)and 4 cm(LP and LP+TR)residuals.Results:A greater ash concentration was found in MSS than LP(84 vs.75 g kg−1 DM).Both LP+TR and MSS had higher crude protein and lower neutral detergent fibre concentrations than LP.The relative ranking of water soluble carbohydrate and dry matter(DM)concentration was LP>LP+TR>MSS.Despite the leaf component of the LP farmlet contributing more to herbage DM,the organic matter digestibilities of the swards were similar.Conclusions:The MSS and LP+TR farmlets achieved similar forage quality under intensive grazing to LP.However,it is worth noting that MSS had a higher concentration of acid detergent lignin,which can negatively impact digestibility.Further investigation is needed to determine optimal grazing management practices that can minimise the effects of higher lignin concentration on digestibility in multispecies swards.
