Premium
The biology of Bassia birchii (F. Muell.) F. Muell.
Author(s) -
AULD B. A.
Publication year - 1976
Publication title -
weed research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.693
H-Index - 74
eISSN - 1365-3180
pISSN - 0043-1737
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-3180.1976.tb00421.x
Subject(s) - germination , seedling , perennial plant , biology , shrub , propagule , infestation , arid , botany , agronomy , horticulture , ecology
Summary: The native perennial shrub, Bassia birchii. occurs as a weed over large areas of semi‐arid eastern Australia. Its germination requirements and seedling growth were investigated and related to field observations and to possible means of control. Seeds cannot germinate until the woody fruit has broken down. Laboratory experiments showed that seeds would germinate throughout the year with most germinating at autumn and spring temperatures. Seedling deaths in the field are attributed to poor root growth, before the effects of water stress occurs. The spasmodic appearance of Bassia birchii infestations, particularly after droughts, is related to the dependence on the death of mature plants to provide propagules and fruit breakdown for germination. The unpredictable infestation pattern and the early development of spined fruits and basal buds on seedlings hinder control. Short period rotational or strategic grazing are suggested as possible means of control of seedlings in areas where perennial pastures can be established.