Permanent Grassland
Fodder Grass

PERMANENT GRASSLAND

Permanent grassland consists of natural or cultivated pastures composed of perennial grasses and legumes. It is the most economical and sustainable source of roughage for livestock production. Permanent grasslands play a crucial role in soil protection, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. With proper management and fertilization, they can remain productive for many years. Grazing and mowing balance directly affect yield and forage quality. Perennial systems improve soil structure and help prevent erosion.

KEY FACTS

  • Perennial production system
  • Low cost, high sustainability
  • Soil protection and improvement
  • Source of biodiversity

Management and Maintenance

Permanent grassland is managed through regular grazing or mowing. Typically, 3–5 cuts per year are possible. Grazing intensity and duration strongly influence plant cover. Weed control, overseeding, and aeration should be carried out periodically. Drainage problems must be addressed and soil compaction should be prevented.

Number of Cuts

3–5 cuts/year

First Cut

May

Yield Potential

8–12 t DM/ha/year

Soil pH

5.5 – 7.0

Nutrient Requirements

Fertilizer requirements for permanent grassland depend on grazing or mowing intensity and botanical composition. Legumes reduce nitrogen demand. Balanced phosphorus and potassium supply is essential for long-term productivity.

Nitrogen (N)
15–25 l/ha/year
Phosphorus (P₂O₅)
60–90 l/ha/year
Potassium (K₂O)
15–20 l/ha/year
Sulfur (S)
30–50 l/ha/year
Magnesium (Mg)
40–60 l/ha/year

Fertilization Strategy

Split fertilization program throughout the year for permanent grassland:

1

Spring – Start of Vegetation

First nitrogen dose (30–40%) and phosphorus–potassium application.

Recommended: KÖK-NPK 15-15-15 + KÖK-UAN+
2

After 1st Cut

Nitrogen and potassium support (25–30% nitrogen).

Recommended: KÖK-UAN+ + KÖK-POTAS
3

After 2nd Cut

Nitrogen and potassium supplementation (20–25% nitrogen).

Recommended: Ammonium Nitrate + KÖK-POTAS
4

After 3rd Cut

Final nitrogen dose and micronutrient support.

Recommended: Urea + KÖK-Mix
5

Autumn

Potassium and phosphorus application for winter preparation.

Recommended: KÖK-NPK 0-20-30

FODDER GRASS

Fodder grass consists of annual or perennial grass and legume mixtures specifically sown for livestock feeding. High yield and forage quality are the primary goals. Mixtures may include Italian ryegrass, perennial ryegrass, alfalfa, sainfoin, and similar species. Intensive fertilization and irrigation enable high productivity. It can be used both for grazing and cutting. The crop may be utilized as silage, hay, or fresh forage.

KEY FACTS

  • High yield potential
  • High-quality roughage production
  • Multi-purpose use
  • Requires intensive management

Sowing and Cultivation

Fodder grass is sown in spring (March–April) or autumn (September–October). Mixture ratios are determined according to the intended use. Sowing depth should be 1–2 cm. Proper soil preparation and starter fertilization are essential. Regular irrigation is required for high yields.

Sowing Time

March–April / September–October

First Cut

60–80 days after sowing

Yield Potential

10–15 t DM/ha/year

Soil pH

6.0 – 7.5

Nutrient Requirements

Fodder grass is an intensive production system with high nutrient demand. Grass-dominated mixtures require particularly high nitrogen input. Nutrient losses occur with each cut and must be replenished accordingly.

Nitrogen (N)
200–300 l/ha/year
Phosphorus (P₂O₅)
80–120 l/ha/year
Potassium (K₂O)
180–250 l/ha/year
Sulfur (S)
40–60 l/ha/year
Magnesium (Mg)
50–70 l/ha/year
Calcium (Ca)
80–100 l/ha/year

Fertilization Strategy

Intensive fertilization program for fodder grass:

1

Pre-sowing – Base Fertilization

NPK application with high phosphorus and potassium content.

Recommended: KÖK-NPK 15-20-20
2

Spring – Start of Growth

High nitrogen dose (25–30%).

Recommended: KÖK-UAN+ + Ammonium Sulfate
3

After Each Cut

Nitrogen and potassium support. Dosage adjusted according to number of cuts.

Recommended: KÖK-UAN+ + KÖK-POTAS
4

Mid-Season

Phosphorus and micronutrient supplementation.

Recommended: KÖK-NPK 10-30-10 + KÖK-Mix
5

After Final Cut

Potassium-focused fertilization for winter preparation.

Recommended: KÖK-POTAS + KÖK-NPK 0-0-40