Subterranean Clover Reseeding

Hard seed production is critical for reseeding of winter annual clover (Trifolium, spp.) under southeastern U.S. climatic conditions. This study was conducted to determine the reseeding capability of a diverse set of subterranean clovers (Trifolium subterraneum L., T. yanninicum Katzn. and Morley, T. brachycalcinum Katzn. and Morley). Thirty‐three subterranean (sub) clover entries were grown in small, replicated plots in fall 1982 to spring 1983 at Angleton (Typic Pelludert) and Overton (Glossic Paleudalt), TX. Reseeding was monitored from June 1983 through December 1985 by counting and removing volunteer sub clover seedlings. Seedling density for all entries at both locations in the first reseeding year (June 1983‐May 1984) accounted for 69% or more of the total seedlings observed during the 2.3‐yr period. In the first reseeding year at Angleton, 15 entries germinated more seed from June to 15 September (summer) than from 15 September to January (fall). Seed survival at Angleton into the second reseeding year was less than 10% of total for all the cultivars evaluated except ‘Meteora’. In the first reseeding year at Overton, only the cultivar ‘Nangeela’ had a higher summer than fall germination. Seed survival at Overton into the second reseeding year was 21 and 29% for the cultivars ‘Esperance’ and ‘Clare’, compared to less than 1% for ‘Mt. Barker’. Summer seed germination was higher and second‐year seed survival less at Angleton compared to Overton. Sub clover reestablishment was adequate for most entries in the first reseeding year at both locations, but reseeding estimates were marginal to very low for most entries in the second and third years. Sub clover germplasm with improved reseeding potential was identified.