Variation in burr burial ability in subterranean clover

Abstract

A simple technique for the measurement of burr burial capacity in subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) is described. The technique is based on the ability of the peduncles to penetrate and form burr below a standard polyethylene mesh.

Highly significant variations in degree of penetration occurred between and within subspecies, with subsp. subterraneum > yanninicum > brachycalycinum. Cultivar differences were also strongly correlated with maturity grading, earlier-maturing cultivars showing a greater degree of penetration.