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The interaction between nitrogen and water in the growth of grass swards: II. Leaf area index and net assimilation rate

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  27 March 2009

M. J. D'aoust
Affiliation:
Department of Agriculture, University of Reading
R. S. Tayler
Affiliation:
Department of Agriculture, University of Reading

Summary

The effect of nitrogen fertilizer and irrigation treatments on the leaf-area index (L) and net assimilation rate (E) of a monthly cut sward of Italian ryegrass (Lolium multifolium) is considered.

Response to nitrogen was due to increase in both L and E, whereas response to irrigation was largely due to increase in L.

The data show little evidence of a seasonal decline in E. This may have been due to the mid-season replacement of old tillers by new, and by the encouragement to new leaf production caused by periodic harvesting.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1969

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