Effects of nitrogen fertiliser on tree/ pasture competition during the establishment phase of a silvopastoral system

The establishment phase of an upland silvopastoral system was studied to examine the growth and nutrition of wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) trees under different nitrogen fertiliser treatments. High rates of nitrogen fertiliser exacerbated competition between trees and pasture in a dry year when low fertiliser treatments produced faster tree height growth. When herbicides were not used to control grass growth after the third growing season, tree growth was significantly reduced showing that below-ground competition may be a significant factor on stony upland soils. Tree growth was correlated with foliar nitrogen concentrations and not soil water, suggesting competition for soil nitrogen reduced tree growth. The importance of the interaction of fertiliser use with competition is considered in relation to successful establishment.