Key Points
- There are opportunities for NZ to increase white clover seed production, but the difficulties in obtaining consistent yields means growers are choosing to grow more reliable crops instead.
- There is currently little information available to growers about the impacts of management on flower production and seed yield.
- Many of the flower heads harvested are already present within actively growing apical buds at the time of closing for seed production, and therefore some current management techniques may be reducing flower bud production.
- Seed development is maximised when flower heads are exposed to direct light at all stages of their growth, therefore understanding how to manage vegetative bulk is important.
- FAR & MAF SFF are funding a three project to understand and improve knowledge of crop growth and development.