The relation of compressed height to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) dry matter yield
2008
Hakl, J.,Ceska Zemedelska Univ., Prague (Czech Republic). Katedra Picninarstvi a Travnikarstvi | Santrucek, J.,Ceska Zemedelska Univ., Prague (Czech Republic). Katedra Picninarstvi a Travnikarstvi | Hejcman, M.,Ceska Zemedelska Univ., Prague (Czech Republic). Katedra Ekologie a Zivotniho Prostredi | Fuksa, P.,Ceska Zemedelska Univ., Prague (Czech Republic). Katedra Picninarstvi a Travnikarstvi
We investigated the possibility of measuring compressed height with a rising-plate meter to predict the yield of alfalfa stands and its suitability for alfalfa height measurement. Data were collected in a randomised block experiment with six semi-erect germplasms in four replications. Compressed height provided the real estimate of alfalfa height with comparable variability as individual alfalfa plants measuring. We recorded a similar precision of alfalfa yield prediction as with other disc instruments on alfalfa stands or on pastures where the use of a rising-plate meter is often recommended. The effect of germplasm on the accuracy of yield estimation was not significant, indicating the suitability of this method for all semi-erect germplasms. The main factor decreasing yield estimation accuracy was the level of alfalfa stand lodging. If lodging does not occur, compressed height measured by a rising-plate meter seems to be a good and well-standardised method for evaluating stand heights and is thus suitable for field experiments as well as for farm use.
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