Seasonal variation in establishment of oversown seed in relation to tussock proximity

Abstract

Seed was sown in small quadrats adjacent to Festuca novae-zelandiae tussocks in a dry hygrous soil. Monthly measurements of seedling establishment were made at each of 3 tussock densities, 3–7 sampling positions, 5 seed species, 4 sowing dates, and in each of 2 years. Proximity to tussocks had little effect on spring germination, but during summer there was lower mortality on the shaded and cooler south side of tussocks. Fewer grass than legume seeds established during the spring phase. Establishment from different sowings increased with increasing rainfall in the week before and 5 weeks after sowing.