Row Spacing and Productivity of Russian Wild Rye Pastures in Semiarid Environments

Abstract

To sustain forage yields in dry years in semiarid climates, row spacings \u3e59cm have been recommended for Russian wild rye [Psathyrostachys juncea (Fisch.) Nevski] (Lawrence & Heinrichs, 1968). However, wide row spacings promote weed invasion, soil erosion, and elevated plant crowns resulting in a rough, washboard ground surface (Kilcher, 1961). Jefferson and Kielly (1998) suggested a 30-cm row spacing for optimum sustainable forage yields in Russian wild rye in the semiarid prairie region of Canada. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between row spacing and productivity of Russian wild rye at two semiarid sites near Mandan, in the northern Great Plains region of the USA (46º 48\u27 N latitude, 100º 55\u27 W longitude)

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