Key Points
- This study was undertaken to: 1. determine if carbohydrate production was limiting seed yield in perennial ryegrass; and 2. improve the understanding of plant/seed development.
- During the growing season, grasses have two main forms of water-soluble carbohydrates; low molecular weight (LMW) and high molecular weight (HMW). Low Molecular weight carbohydrates are transportable within the plant while HMW carbohydrates cannot be moved.
- Total amount of water-soluble carbohydrates in the plant following anthesis (flowering) does not limit seed yield, however the distribution and remobilisation of carbohydrates to the seed is a factor limiting seed yield.
- If more water-soluble carbohydrates, principally LMW can be remobilised to the immature seed there is potential
- to improve seed yield in perennial ryegrass.