Effect of NP fertilisation on the production of mountain pastures at different altitudes.

To promote the rational utilisation of mountain pastures, the research analyses the effects of low mineral NP fertilisation on forage production of pastures during five grazing seasons. The pastures belonged to the association Brizo (mediae)-Brometum erecti and were located at different altitudes on Monte Catria (Central Apennines). A low NP fertilisation increased the DM yield and the growth rate of the pastures at each altitude and throughout the vegetative season. Under particular climatic conditions, a low NP fertilisation produced an earlier beginning of the vegetative period. Compared to the higher altitudes, the lower elevation determined an higher forage production, and earlier beginning and a longer duration of the vegetative period.