Summary
This 37-year field experiment (1984–2020) evaluated the agro-ecological efficiency of three fertiliser systems—organic (manure only), mineral (NPK), and organo-mineral (NPK plus manure)—in a crop rotation dominated by grain crops and perennial grasses. Organo-mineral systems, particularly at higher nutrient doses with manure amendment, sustained the highest productivity during both the active treatment period and the seven-year after-effect period (2.96 t/ha grain units, 70% above control). Organo-mineral approaches optimised soil organic matter dynamics and biological activity whilst improving grain protein content, whereas purely organic systems increased starch content and reduced tuber nitrates.
Regional applicability
The findings may have relevance to UK mixed farming systems combining cereals and grassland, particularly regarding optimisation of organo-mineral strategies and soil health outcomes. However, the study's specific location, soil type, and climate conditions are not stated, limiting direct extrapolation to UK conditions without further contextualisation.
Key measures
Crop rotation productivity (t/ha grain units); grain protein content (%); potato starch content and nitrate levels; soil humus status; soil biological activity; cellulose-decomposing capacity
Outcomes reported
The study measured crop rotation productivity (grain equivalent units per hectare), crop quality parameters (protein and starch content, nitrate accumulation), and soil health indicators including humus status, dehumification rates, and biological activity. Comparisons were made across 30 years of active fertiliser application (1984–2013) plus a 7-year after-effect monitoring period (2014–2020).
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