Evaluating the use of forage radishes as a pasture improvement tool

Evaluating the use of forage radishes as a pasture improvement tool

Summary

The objective of this study is to measure the impact of forage radishes on pasture productivity and soil health. The proposed field study will measure the effect of individual radish plants on infiltration rate, soil quality indicators and forage growth multiple times over the course of one year. The experiment will be replicated on three established pastures, each representing a different soil texture. During 2011, three field sites were identified at Shelburne Farms in Shelburne, Vermont. The farm expressed particular interest in exploring the use of the forage in their compact and often wet clay soils. Filed plots will be established in June of 2012 and the radishes will be planted the following month. Forage radishes may emerge as a simple, low cost tool capable improving farm productivity and soil health.

Objectives/Performance Targets

There were four objectives to this study: (1) Quantify the effects of forage radish growth and decomposition on a variety of soil quality indicators, (2) Assess the impact of forage radish on forage production and quality, (3) Monitor impacts of forage radish growth and decomposition on soil infiltration rates, and (4) Use experimental results to develop and distribute relevant and appropriate fact sheets for use by farmers and agricultural professionals describing how to utilize forage radishes in pastures and the possible advantages of doing so.

The experiment will officially start in during the summer 2012. At this phase, I have not yet begun work on any of the objectives.

Accomplishments/Milestones

The experiment will officially start in during the summer 2012. At this phase, I have obtained formal permission from Shelburne Farms to conduct the study on their land and worked with the farmer to identify field sites.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

The experiment will officially start in during the summer 2012. There are no impacts or contributions to date.

Collaborators: