Semi-permanent pastures are pastures that are established for a few years to cover the soil and provide feed for livestock. These pastures are typically converted into cropping lands after a few years.
When there is a break in the cropping phase, farmers may find it difficult to leave the land idle. Therefore, semi-permanent pastures are often established on such lands to help farmers acquire more feed for livestock or generate extra income from the sale of forage.
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1. Understanding Semi-permanent Pastures and Their Role in Farming Systems
Semi-permanent pastures are pastures that are established as part of a rotation system, usually due to a break in the cropping phase. The cropping phase can be interrupted for several reasons, such as a drastic decrease in crop prices, disease outbreaks, low soil fertility, or a change in the farmer’s decision.
Therefore, livestock production is integrated into these pastures for a short period, usually 5-10 years, before the pastureland is converted back into cropping land.
2. How To Establish Semi-permanent Pastures For Improved Farming Outcomes
Semi-permanent pastures are established on fertile soils that are not waterlogged and are not undulating. The site should be well-prepared by following recommended agronomic procedures. Leguminous forages should carefully follow plots that were previously planted with cereal crops, such as Mucuna pruriens, and vice versa.
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3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Establishing Semi-permanent Pastures in Agriculture
Establishing semi-permanent pastures offers several advantages, including:
- The flexibility to revert to crop cultivation whenever desired.
- Protection of soil from direct exposure to sunlight, which helps prevent soil degradation.
- Conservation of soil organisms, improving overall soil health.
- Increased income levels through the sale of forage or other crops.
However, there are also some disadvantages to establishing these pastures:
- Potential for pests to become a problem on the farm.
- Difficulty in eradication when using local implements like hoes.
- Challenges in establishment when poorly managed due to competition with other crops.
This article has discussed the difference between semi-permanent and temporary pastures, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of establishing such pastures. Semi-permanent pastures are established on fertile lands for improved productivity and can serve as an effective method for integrating livestock production into crop rotation systems.
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