An analysis of the potential production of swards of subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.) at Adelaide, South Australia.
Abstract
Potential annual production at optimal LAI in the absence of growth-limiting factors was estimated at 65 (metric) tons DM/ha. Allowing for summer drought, potential seasonal production was 13-35 tons DM/ha with an average of 27 tons/ha. Actual average production was about 8 tons/ha. Yield reductions caused by inadequate LAI early in the season were 2-12 tons/ha, with an average of 3 tons/ha for a dense undefoliated sward, and those caused by excessive LAI late in the season were 16 tons/ha. It was considered possible to recover a large proportion of this 16 tons/ha by judicious defoliation. F. s.-R.B.