The effect of low-input upon semi-natural grasslands of Apuseni Mountains

Abstract

The floristic composition of permanent grasslands is the results of the interaction between all the ecological factors and the controlled conditions. The most significant influence upon the species diversity is owned by the intensity of fertilization and the used mineral fertilizers. The nitrogen fertilization, especially in high doses, influences quickly and considerably the site’s floristic composition. The aim of our study was to identify the effect of mulching with different frequencies combined with mineral fertilization on floristic composition and the production of permanent grasslands in Apuseni Mountains, Romania. The technological inputs’ performance generates a considerable decrease of the plant diversity, especially in case of the variants treated with large quantities of fertilizers. Because we presented results in the second years testing the effects of mineral fertilizer is lower regarding changes at canopy level.