Farming practices and product quality in Lithuania

Abstract

Results of long-term experiments at the Lithuanian University of Agriculture on the effects of different farming systems and fertilization methods (organic, integrated and conventional) are presented. Yields of barley, winter wheat and sugarbeet were lower, and yields of red clover (Trifolium pratense) were higher, with organic than with integrated farming systems. There was no evidence that organically grown crops had better nutritional quality. In the case of vegetables, yields were higher with mineral fertilizers but differences in chemical composition with fertilizing treatments were not significant. Organically grown carrots and potatoes had lower nitrate and higher vitamin contents. The reverse was true for cabbage. The Ascorbic Index and Carotene Index were greater in organically grown potatoes and carrots, respectively. After five years, nutrients levels in soil were higher in the conventionally farmed than in the organic plots. The reverse was true for organic matter content.