Performance and interactions in varieties of lucerne (Medicago sativa L.)

Abstract

The performances of Hunter River and four introduced varieties of lucerne were tested at Canberra, Armidale and Deniliquin. In summer Du Puits yielded 32 per cent more than Hunter River at Canberra and 22 per cent more at Armidale. In winter Hairy Peruvian produced 135 per cent more than Htmter River at Canberra in 1958 and 1959, and 66 per cent more at Armidale in 1959 and 1960. The ranking of varieties differed in summer and winter. Results at Canberra and Armidale differed greatly from those at Deniliquin, and a variety x locality interaction has been demonstrated. The advantages and disadvantages of the introduced varieties are described, and a breeding programme is suggested on the basis of the present investigation.