What is nitrogen (N)?
N is one of the building blocks of plant proteins. A key nutrient in manipulating plant growth. When N is deficient, restricted growth of tips and roots and especially lateral shoots may occur.
With insufficient N:
Pasture plants become spindly, entire plant turns light green and then a yellowing of older leaves. Older leaves may defoliate early.
N Fixation.
This is a process by which N from the atmosphere is converted into a form that the plant can use. In clover and other leguminous plants, this is carried out by special bacteria called Rhizobia that live in the root nodules. When CRW larvae feed on the nodules, they reduce the ability of the plant to fix nitrogen, leading to reduced pasture growth and productivity.
In the presence of CRW, an application of N can help to maintain clover growth and survival. Application needs to fit in with your nutrient management plan.
