Some effects of time of sowing on the first 12 months' growth of ‘Grasslands Huia’ white clover, sown at two seeding rates or associated with ‘Grasslands Manawa’ ryegrass

Abstract

‘Grasslands Huia’ white clover was sown alone at 1030 and 440 seeds/m², or at 440 seeds with 590 ‘Grasslands Manawa’ ryegrass seeds/m² in early spring (September), late spring (November), and autumn (March). Field emergence of seedlings was highest from autumn sowing and lowest from late spring sowing. Differences between the clover seeding-rate treatments were dependent upon the length of the period of cool, dark weather between sowing and the commencement of rapid growth in late spring-early summer. Where clover was mixed with Manawa, highest clover yields were obtained from autumn sowing, but highest grass plus clover yields were from late spring sowing. Results are discussed in relation to light, temperature, and competition responses.