Structure of a lucerne population (Medicago sativa L.) and dynamics of stem competition for light during regrowth.
Abstract
M. sativa cv. du Puits and Europe plants contained 2 populations of stems originating from either axillary or crown buds which differed in their rates of appearance and senescence. Rates of plant disappearance during regrowth could be explained by differences in the amounts of radiation intercepted by the 2 types of stem. Competition for light appeared to be the most important factor and competition between stems increased as conditions become more favourable for growth.