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Copy link Polysulphate Alfalfa Trial in Italy
9.1
Ravenna, Italy 2020
9.1
Key Conclusions
The protein percentage was increased by 9.1% and the RFV increased by 9.6% as compared to the control.
Objective
To evaluate the effect of Polysulphate on the quality and yield of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) in Northern Italy.
Trial Details
Trial station
Ravenna, Italy
Crop
Alfalfa
Product
Polysulphate Granular
Assessments
Yield, dry matter (%), proteins, and RFV (Relative Feed Value)
Treatments
Treatments
The trial consisted of strip plots with 4 replicates. The 3 treatments were:
- A control without Polysulphate,
- Polysulphate applied on 27 December 2019 at 150 kg/ha (134 lbs/A), and
- Polysulphate applied on 27 December 2019 at 300 kg/ha (268 lb/A).
The four cuttings of alfalfa took place on: 4 May, 12 June, 16 July and 26 August 2020.
As per the farmer’s usual practice, the alfalfa was grown in rotation with wheat.
Treatments
Treatments
The trial consisted of strip plots with 4 replicates. The 3 treatments were:
- A control without Polysulphate,
- Polysulphate applied on 27 December 2019 at 150 kg/ha (134 lbs/A), and
- Polysulphate applied on 27 December 2019 at 300 kg/ha (268 lb/A).
The four cuttings of alfalfa took place on: 4 May, 12 June, 16 July and 26 August 2020.
As per the farmer’s usual practice, the alfalfa was grown in rotation with wheat.
Results
- Polysulphate application generally increased the protein percentage and the Relative Feed Value (RFV). Protein content was significantly higher in the first cut with the application of 300 kg/ha (268 lbs/A) of Polysulphate, and similar trends appeared in the third and fourth cuttings, though not significant.
- Considering the mean value of the four cuttings, Polysulphate application at 300 kg/ha (268 lbs/A) enhanced the quality parameters of the alfalfa. Protein was increased by 9.1% and the RFV increased by 9.6% as compared to the control.
- Drought in spring-summer limited dry matter production (7.2 tons/A after four cuttings, on average). Dry matter production was similar across treatments, with no significant differences within individual cuttings nor in the cumulative production.
Polysulphate fertilizer enhanced the quality parameters of the alfalfa crop.
Letters indicate significant differences at P < 0.05.
Alfalfa trial inspection
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Polysulphate Granular
A naturally plant-available, gradual release fertilizer with S, K, Mg and Ca
