A study of seed-borne aspects of the spring black stem disease of lucerne : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Agricultural Science at Massey University

The area of lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) in New Zealand has increased rapidly in recent years as farmers have recognized the role it can play in farming enterprises (Table I). There are several reasons to account for this increase: (i) A gross margin analysis of lucerne as a cash crop shows a return that is equal to or greater than for comparable crops such as barley or peas (Tocker, 1970; Lamb, 1969; Anon., 1970). (ii) Lucerne has a greater versatility than other crops as it can bo utilized in several ways to produce many final products (Fig. 1). (iii) Lucerne provides a more assured feed supply than conventional rye grass/clover pastures in those areas subject to droughts and with light soils (Oliver, 1971). [FROM INTRODUCTION