Nitrogen (N) is the most important nutrient for crop growth and development. It is a key building block for proteins and plays a vital role in cell division. Nitrogen is also a component of enzymes, chlorophyll, and DNA, making it essential for plant metabolism and photosynthesis.

Importance

Nitrogen is crucial for grass growth and forage quality. A deficiency leads to poor growth and pale coloration, while an excess results in disproportionately high protein content compared to energy value (Feed Unit Milk). This imbalance causes nitrogen loss through urine and can negatively affect grass quality and animal health by reducing mineral absorption.

Effects of excess nitrogen

Too much nitrogen in grass can lead to:

• High protein levels without matching energy value
• Nitrogen loss via urine
• Reduced absorption of essential minerals
• Possible health issues in livestock, such as headaches.

Nitrogen supply capacity (NLV)

The N-total analysis determines the Nitrogen Supply Capacity (NLV) of a field. NLV represents the amount of nitrogen absorbed by grass during a season without fertilisation. This nitrogen comes from:

Mineralisation of soil nitrogen reserves

Deposition from the atmosphere

NLV is essential for advising on the maximum annual nitrogen application and per-cut recommendations. The actual amount per cut depends on:

Cut weight

Desired annual nitrogen application (which may be less than the maximum allowed).

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