High nitrogen fertilization and rotational grazing boost steer weight gains significantly.
The researchers studied how different levels of nitrogen fertilizer, stocking rates, and grazing methods affected the weight gains of steers grazing on Kikuyu pastures. They found that high nitrogen levels in the first season led to higher weight gains for the steers, but this effect was not seen in the second season. Rotational grazing in the second season resulted in higher weight gains compared to continuous grazing. The improved weight gains from high nitrogen fertilization and rotational grazing were likely due to increased availability of forage rather than better quality.