Effect of fertilizing rate and sowing method on the production performance of new timothy line in the alpine and humid regions of Gansu

To determine the more suitable nitrogen fertilizing rate and sowing method, the effects of different nitrogen fertilizing rates pure nitrogen application 0 (F₁), 90 (F₂), 180 (F₃), 360 kg·ha⁻¹ (F₄) and sowing methods drill (S₁), broadcast (S₂), and dibble (S₃) on the production performance and nutrition value of new timothy (Phleum pretense) line for the second and third growth years in an alpine and humid area of Gansu province was explored. The results showed that at a fertilization rate of 90 kg·ha⁻¹ during the second and third growth years, the average hay yield of new timothy line was the highest, and the average CP contents was also higher. Under the dibble sowing method, the average plant height and the CP and EE contents of timothy line were higher compared to those observed with the drill and broadcast sowing methods. The interaction between fertilizing rates and sowing methods showed that the growth and development of the new timothy line required different fertilizing rates with different sowing methods. Dibble, the line model of timothy grass with 90 kg·hm⁻² fertilizing rate applied in the second and third growth years has the characteristics of less seed and fertilization, high yield, and good nutrition. It is a planting method with low input and high yield, which is suitable for popularization in the alpine and wet areas of Gansu Province.