The reaction of Anthephora pubescens to N, P and K fertilization was evaluated from 1976 to 1983. Dry matter production at N levels of 0; 75 and 150 kg/ha were 1,9; 2,2 and 2,3 ton/ha respectively. This relative poor reaction to N was related to rainfall variations and the initial low soil P status. A significant N × P interaction was recorded. Dry matter production increased from 1,6 ton/ha at the NO × PO treatment to 2,8 ton/ha at the 150 kg N/ha × 20 kg P/ha treatment. Anthephora responded poorly to K fertilization and the mean dry matter production was 2,1; 2,2 and 2,2 ton/ha with 0; 75 and 150 kg K/ha respectively. The mean crude protein content of A. pubescens increased from 6,5 % at the NO level to 8,8 % with 150 kg N/ha. The P content of plant material increased from 0,13 % at the PO level to 0,20 % with 20 kg P/ha. The Zn content of plant material dropped to sub?optimal levels during the trial.
Journal articles from the Grassland Society of Southern Africa (GSSA) African Journal of Range and Forage Science as well as related articles and reports from throughout the southern African region.