Can forage legumes improve soil health in grazing systems?

Authors: Jaramillo, David; DUBEUX, JOSE - University Of Florida

Submitted to: Southern Pasture and Forage Crop Improvement Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/22/2022
Publication Date: 7/22/2022
Citation: Jaramillo, D.M., Dubeux, J. 2022. Can forage legumes improve soil health in grazing systems?. Southern Pasture and Forage Crop Improvement Conference Proceedings. outhern Pastures and Forage Improvement Conference, Asheville, NC. July 26-29.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Soil health is typically defined as the continued capacity of a soil to function as a vital living ecosystem capable of sustaining plants, animals, and humans. Management practices have a direct impact on the soil health in grasslands. Soil carbon sequestration is an important component of sustaining desirable soil characteristics but nitrogen is also highly important for soils and an important contributor to soil carbon sequestration. Legumes are beneficial for increasing grassland productivity and enhancing nutrient cycling, while also reducing economic impacts from fertilizer application. Legumes have been successfully utilized in pasture systems in the southeastern US, indicating potential to reduce off-farm inputs while sustaining productivity. Overall, evidence suggests that legume inclusion in pastures is a practice that can sustain or improve the productivity of grasslands in the southeastern US region.