Ecosystem Development on Reclaimed China Clay Wastes. IV. Recycling of Above-Ground Plant Nutrients

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Abstract
The accumulation of nutrients in the standing crop and standing dead material in naturally grazed and sheep-grazed vegetation on reclaimed China clay wastes was monitored. The standing dead pool as a store of nutrients and as a potential blockage to nutrient cycling is discussed. Sheep grazing as a management tool to reduce the above-ground plant material, particularly the standing dead, was demonstrated. A preliminary attempt was made to quantify the rates of internal nutrient cycling from the above-ground plant pool, and nutrient returns from a sheep grazing regime. Internal cycling and sheep grazing may be important supplies of nutrients in these nutrient deficient wastes. For N, inputs from atmospheric and measured cycling sources compare favorably with additions from inorganic fertilizers.