White clover and chicory production from four sowing dates with five rates of ryegrass: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science With Honours at Lincoln University

Low lamb growth rates are attributed to less than 30% dicotyledonous species in a pasture. In this study germination, emergence, herbage production, botanical composition of the pastures and root and shoot weight of chicory (Cichorium intybus L. c.v 'Puna'), sown on four sowing dates (4/2, 26/2, 19/3, 9/4), with 0, 4, 8, 12 or 16 kg ha⁻¹ rates of ryegrass (Lolium perenne L. c.v 'Ruanui') and 3 kg ha⁻¹ white clover (Trifolium repens L. c.v. 'Le Bons') and 1.5 kg ha⁻¹ chicory were examined. All species emerged after a similar thermal time (ca 172 °Cd), and temperature did not effect (p<0.05) the maximum percentage germination of ryegrass or white clover. Maximum percentage germination of chicory declined (p<0.05) from 79% to 34% at 24°c and 10 °C respectively. Dry matter production by 25 September decreased for each delay in sowing date (p