Effects of Atrazine, 2,4-D and Fertilizer on Crude Protein Content of Oklahoma Tallgrass Prairie

Abstract

Various combinations of atrazine, 2,4-D, and NPK fertilizer were applied initially in 1975 on a tallgrass prairie in good condition and again as a retreatment in 1976 on one-half of each treated area. Application of atrazine with fertilizer increased crude protein content, crude protein yield, and range condition during the summer. Differences in protein levels in dormant forage were not evident. Therefore the application of atrazine and fertilizer appears to be more feasible for summer grazing or production of high quality prairie hay than for yearlong or winter grazing.