Variation of the nutritional content of different genotypes of Lotus corniculatus L. under optimum and sub-optimal soil moisture conditions throughout the seasons of the year

Resumen

O

Objective: To evaluate the leaf nutrient content of four accessions and one variety of Lotus corniculatus L. trefoil throughout the seasons of the year and under optimum and sub-optimal soil moisture content, established under a shade mesh in northern Mexico.

Design/Methodology/Approach: During the 2021-2022 period, an experimental randomized block design, in a split-plot arrangement, with three replicates was established. The large plots had an optimum (26±1.5%) and sub-optimal (22±1.5%) soil moisture content. The small plots consisted of the trefoil accessions: 255301, 255305, 202700, 226792 origin code, and the Estanzuela Ganador variety.

Results: At optimum soil moisture content, the 202700 accessions recorded a K deficiency throughout the year. Meanwhile, regardless of the soil moisture content, the 255301 accessions recorded a Mg and a Mn deficiency only in summer. N, P, Fe, and Mn recorded deficient contents: N and P throughout the year and Fe and Mn only in winter and spring.

Study Limitations/Implications: These results could require a field validation, since the experiment was carried out in semi-controlled conditions, under shade mesh.

Findings/Conclusions: Developing an adequate annual nutrition program for L. corniculatus L. that improves its forage productivity requires several key factors, including the behavior of the nutritional status (dependent on the type of nutrient), the growth stage of the plant, the season of the year, and the soil moisture content.