Explain pasture management practices under the following sub-headings: (a) land preparation; (b) three methods of propagation; c) two methods of sowing; (d)...

Answer Details

Pasture management practices

(a) Land preparation

The land is cleared of bush, trees and stumps, then ploughed and harrowed to give a fine, firm seedbed. Where necessary the soil is limed to correct acidity, and drainage or levelling is done before planting.

(b) Three methods of propagation

1. By seeds (for grasses such as guinea grass and legumes such as stylo).
2. By cuttings/stem cuttings (e.g. elephant/Napier grass).
3. By splits or root/rhizome division (also by runners).

(c) Two methods of sowing

1. Broadcasting (scattering seeds evenly over the seedbed).
2. Drilling/row planting (placing seeds or setts in rows at a spacing).

(d) Fertilizer application

Nitrogenous fertilizers are applied to boost grass (leaf) growth, while phosphate fertilizers favour the establishment of the legume component. Fertilizer is applied at establishment and top-dressed after each grazing/cutting to maintain vigour. Farmyard manure may also be used.

(e) Grazing

The pasture should not be grazed until it is well established (usually a few months). Controlled/rotational grazing is practised at the correct stocking rate to prevent over-grazing, allow regrowth, and avoid trampling and selective feeding.

(f) Four other management practices

1. Weeding/weed control to remove undesirable plants.
2. Control of pests and diseases.
3. Irrigation/watering during the dry season.
4. Mowing/topping, and reseeding of bare patches, plus prevention of bush fire.