Environmental modifications for improved grassland production.

Abstract

The most important environmental limitations to grassland production are set by the moisture regime, the physiography, soil conditions, temperature, vegetation present, entomological and microbiological factors of the environment. The significant features of these factors are discussed. Modification which can be applied to overcome these limitations and the resultant degree of grassland intensification (veld, reinforced veld and planted pastures) which can be achieved placed the greatest limitation on herbage production.Improved grassland productivity resulting from modification of the environment can be spectacular and is illustrated by specific examples.

Keywords: condition; grassland; herbage; herbage production; moisture regime; pasture; physiography; production; productivity; south africa; temperature; veld