Effect of sowing date, inoculation level, and pelleting on the establishment of oversown lucerne

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Abstract
Effects of sowing date, inoculation level, and seed pelleting on the establishment of oversown lucerne (Medicago sativa) were investigated over 3 years on sites in the semi-arid North Otago region of the South Island. Results indicated that successful establishment of broadcast lucerne can be expected only on damper shady sites or if sowing was followed by rain. There were strong sowing date × site interactions, and early-mid August sowings tended to give best establishment except on shady sites, which favoured slightly later sowings. Some sowings showed large responses to both lime pelleting and inoculation rates up to 50 times the recommended rates. However, under unfavourable conditions these treatments were not sufficient to ensure nodulation and survival of the seedlings. The results are discussed in relation to meteorological records and the need for development of more effective seed-treatment techniques.

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