YORKSHIRE FOG SEED PRODUCTION 1. Effects of closing date, nitrogen application and harvest date on seed yield and its components

Abstract

Seed production by 'Massey Basyn' Yorkshire fog (Holcus lanatus L.) was greatest (mean 323 kg/ha) with early closing (June 30), but lodging occurred on these plots and commercial harvesting would be difftcult. With later closing (July 31 and August 31), lodging did not occur and average yields of about 250 kg/ha were obtained. Very late closing (September 30) resulted in a severe yield depression. Application of nitrogen fertilizer either at closing or at inflorescence initiation increased seed yields by an average of 30%. Peak seed yields occurred later at harvest time as closing was delayed. With the optim8um combination of treatments, yields of 400 kg/ha were achieved and it is suggested that yields of at least 200 kg/ha could be obtained commercially.