Introduction

• Soil fertility can be defined as the capacity of soil to supply adequate quantities of mineral nutrients for the cause of plant’s growth and development.
• The productivity of pastoral systems depends on soil fertility and a combination of other biological, chemical and physical factors that also determines pastures and animal growth.

Nutrient cycling in pasture

Nutrient recycling in pastures involves the dynamic exchange of essential elements within the ecosystem, supporting plant growth and sustaining the overall ecosystem. Here’s a summary in bullet points:

a) Decomposition: Dead plant material and organic matter from animals accumulate on the pasture surface.

b) Microbial Action: Soil microbes break down organic matter into simpler compounds through processes like decomposition and mineralization.

c) Nutrient Release: Nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are released from decomposed organic matter.

d) Plant Uptake: Pasture plants absorb available nutrients from the soil through their root systems.

e) Grazing Animals: Animals graze on pasture plants, consuming nutrients stored within the plants.

f) Manure Deposition: Grazing animals excrete waste in the form of manure, returning nutrients to the soil.

g) Nutrient Incorporation: Nutrients in manure and urine are incorporated back into the soil as organic matter.

h) Microbial Recycling: Soil microbes further process manure, breaking down complex compounds into simpler forms.

i) Leaching and Runoff: Excess nutrients not taken up by plants or microbes can leach into groundwater or be carried away by runoff, potentially leading to environmental issues.

j) Cycling Continues: The nutrient cycle repeats as decomposed matter, plant uptake, animal consumption, and waste deposition continue.

Overall, nutrient recycling in pastures ensures a sustainable balance of nutrients within the ecosystem, supporting plant growth, soil health, and minimizing nutrient loss to the environment.