This study underscores the potential of increasing sward species diversity using clovers and herbs to sustain economic performances of pasture-based systems while reducing fertilizer N reliance and enhancing animal performance.
The objective of this study was to compare the economic performances of 3 pasture-based systems: a perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.; PRG) receiving 250 kg N/ha (PRG-250N); a PRG-white clover (Trifolium repens L.; WC) receiving 125 kg N/ha (PRGWC-125N); and a multispecies (MSS) sward composed of grasses, legumes, and herbs receiving 125 kg N/ha (MSS-125N).
Sward and animal performances were measured over 3 years in a system-scale study involving 3 farmlets at Teagasc Moorepark, Ireland.