What is the common method used to apply fertilizers to pastures?

Top dressing is a widely used method for applying fertilizers to pastures because it allows for even distribution over the soil surface without disturbing existing plants or soil structure. This technique is particularly advantageous in pasture management, where it is vital to nourish the grass or forage crops without hindering their growth.

In top dressing, fertilizers, either granular or liquid, are applied on top of the established vegetation. This method not only ensures that the nutrients are readily accessible to the plants, but it also minimizes the risk of soil erosion and compaction that can occur with more invasive application methods. It is most effective when used during the active growing season, when the plants can quickly take up the nutrients.

Other methods, like broadcast seeding or subsurface injection, serve different purposes. Broadcast seeding involves spreading seeds over the area and is not primarily intended for fertilization, while subsurface injection aims to place fertilizers below the soil surface, which can be more disruptive to the pasture ecosystem. Drip irrigation is focused on delivering water rather than nutrients, although it can incorporate liquid fertilizers in some systems, it is not the most common method for general pasture fertilization.