Effect of sowing rate and sowing method on the establishment, yield and survival of irrigated lucerne at Kyabram, Victoria

Abstract

Hunter River lucerne (Medicago sativa) was sown at 6.7, 9, 13.4, 17.9, 22.4 or 26.9 kg ha -1, broadcast or in 15, 30 or 45 cm rows under irrigation. Seeding rate did not affect dry matter production. There were no significant differences in dry matter production between sowing broadcast or in 15 cm rows, but 30 cm and 45 cm rows produced less dry matter than 15 cm rows (P < 0.01 ). Seeding rates and sowing methods affected the plant population, which affected the morphology of the roots and the aerial growth.