THE INFLUENCE OF ASPECT ON PASTURE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

Large differences in climatic, edaphic, and biotic variables were recorded among four aspects of a hill in the Southern Ruahine range over a twelve-month period. Productivity of the existing sward appeared to be strongly influenced by available soil nitrogen levels, and soil moisture status during the summer/autumn months. Pasture botanical composition was related to both these factors and also to soil available phosphate status. Some practical implications of the differences recorded are discussed with reference to farm subdivision, seeds mixtures and feriiiizer requirements.