EN
The objective of this study is a determination of quantitative and qualitative changes in sward of meadow as result of their renovation by method of conventional tillage caused by different seed rate in a period of 11-years field experiment. The paper presents results of three mixtures applied for the renovation of meadows in Bielawy in 1988. Investigations were carried out in production conditions. Current recommendations were applied in fixing the seed rate. Three different mixtures were used: A - 30 kg ha⁻¹, B - 43 kg ha⁻¹ and C - 36 kg ha⁻¹. Simultaneously, on half of the experimental areas, seeds were increased by 100% and, in this way, two experimental treatments were obtained: ,,standard sowing" and „higher density sowing" . On the basis of the obtained results it was found that the seed rate should be considered as an important but frequently underestimated factor resulting in favourable quantitative and qualitative changes in the sward of grasslands established using the method of conventional tillage. Higher seed rate lead to a better development and longer persistence of the sward, which the composition is more similar to the composition of the applied mixture. Furthermore, denser sowing, by reducing the number of gaps in the sward, restricts the appearance of species not included in the mixture, which often present serious threats to the newly sown grass species, especially in the initial stages of utilisation. Higher seed rate lead to the establishment of denser swards resulting in changes in thermal and moisture conditions of the soil favourable for the growth and development of plants. Higher yields obtained from such meadows is the outcome of better light utilisation, higher soil moisture content as well as lower soil temperature. Increased seed rate ensuring the establishment of meadows characterised by the desired fioristic composition create a sound basis which can lead to their improved persistence. There should, therefore, be a positive correlation between the seed rate and meadow persistence. It may be said that higher seed rate delaying the need for their next renovation.