Evaluation of the grassland sward floristic composition of the Wadowice commune

• Main Author: Ksenia Strzeżoń
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Wydawnictwo Naukowe Uniwersytetu Pedagogicznego 2020-11-01
• Series: Annales Universitatis Paedagogicae Cracoviensis Studia Naturae
• Subjects: ellenberg’s indicators; grasslands; habitat; klapp method; utility value of meadows (uvm)
• Online Access: https://aupcstudianaturae.up.krakow.pl/article/view/7517

The quality of the botanical composition of meadows and pastures is decisive in the profitability of livestock farming. The aim of this study was to examine the floristic composition of meadows and pastures of the Wadowice commune and to assess their feed value. Field explorations were carried out in June 2016 throughout the commune. Floristic lists were made on 51 designated plots using the estimated Klapp method. Four groups of similar plots with the following dominant species were distinguished in the analysed area: I – plots with Phleum pratense and Vicia cracca, II – plots with Dactylis glomerata and Trifolium repens, III – plots with Holcus lanatus, and IV – plots with Arrhenatherum elatius. The results of the research showed that, in the area of this commune, meadows and pastures were characterised by average and good pasture values, which favours their use for agricultural purposes. Improving the quality of the botanical composition of plots of medium fodder value could be achieved through proper care and sustainable use.