TEMPERATURE EFFECTS ON GERMINATION OF NEW ZEALAND HERBAGE GRASSES

Abstract

Percentage germination and germination rate (days to 75% germination) of 14 'Grasslands' cultivars from 9 grass species were assessed at constant temperatures of 5,10,15,20,25,3O"C and a fluctuating temperature of S/lO"C. Ryegrass germination did not differ significantly within the range of temperatures used. Germination of Kahu timothy and Maru phalaris was reduced at or below 10°C and at 30°C. Raki paspalum failed to germinate below 15°C. The germination of Apanui and Wana cocksfoot and Matua prairie grass was reduced at 30°C. Germination rates for all species slowed as temperature moved away from the optimum, as did the number of days to the start of germination. Germination rate was greatest for the ryegrasses at all temperatures; for all other species the order was timothy, tall fescue> phalaris prairie grass and cocksfoot at lO"C, and timothy > phalaris, prairie grass>cocksfoot >tall fescue at 5°C. The implications of these results for pasture establishment are discussed. Keywords: germination, germination rate, temperature, temperate grasses, pasture establishment.