An agronomic evaluation of subterranean clover cultivars

Abstract

The permanent pasture based on a grass-clover association and utilised in situ by grazing stock is the basis of New Zealand's chief primary industries. Although white clover is the main legume species used for this purpose its production and persistence in the drier eastern areas of the South Island often leaves much to be desired. In such situations subterranean clover may provide a useful alternative. Subterranean clover has been a very useful species in the past and will probably continue to play an important role in the future, provided the most climatically adapted cultivars are grown. The aim of the field trials was to evaluate the productive performance of several subterranean clover cultivars in Canterbury. Because of the big influence of seed yield on subsequent production and persistence in annuals, this aspect was also investigated. The subterranean clover cultivars Geraldton, Yarloop, Woogenellup, Clare, Mt. Barker and Tallarook were evaluated under cutting in swards at two sites in Canterbury.