Open AccessMaximising seed production potential in white clover: factors influencing seed set per floret
Author(s) -
R. G. Thomas
Publication year - 1996
Publication title -
grassland research and practice series
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2463-4751
pISSN - 0110-8581
DOI - 10.33584/rps.6.1995.3375
Subject(s) - ovule , anthesis , biology , sterility , fertilisation , agronomy , pollination , horticulture , botany , pollen , cultivar , embryo , embryogenesis , reproductive technology , microbiology and biotechnology
The causes of low seed set per floret in white clover (Trifolium repens L.) are reviewed. Three stages of flower head development are distinguished as important for a high level of seed set: a pre-fertilisation stage, a stage of anthesis leading to pollination, and a postfertilisation stage in which seed provisioning occurs. In sunny conditions the percentage seed set is limited at the pre-fertilisation stage by up to 20-30% ovule sterility. Relatively low light intensities during the postfertilisation stage can lead to abortion of a high proportion of fertilised ovules and developing seeds. Experimental results suggest that seed yields under optimal growing conditions can be limited solely by the level of pre-fertilisation ovule sterility and probably cannot be bettered, but further understanding of the seed-provisioning requirements for photosynthate could lead to improved management practices for seed production under conditions of lower light intensities. Keywords: abortion, light intensity, ovule, seed provisioning, sterility, white clover