Maximising seed production potential in white clover: factors influencing seed set per floret
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33584/rps.6.1995.3375Abstract
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
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