Co-Authors:
Gurfel, D., Division of Legume Inoculation, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Löbel, R., Division of Legume Inoculation, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Schiffmann, J., Division of Legume Inoculation, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel, Agricultural Research Organization, Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Abstract:
Hedysarum coronarium L. has recently been introduced into Israel for evaluation as a “new” winter forage crop. The lack of a native rhizobial population suitable for this legume and the need for inoculation were assessed. Field inoculation experiments with effective Rhizobium strains, previously selected under greenhouse conditions, proved the benefits of symbiotically fixed N2 to yield potential and forage quality of H. coronarium. Seasonal changes in nodulation, plant dry matter accumulation and N2(C2H2)- fixation activity under field conditions were followed. The effect of defoliation on root nodule development and nitrogen fixation rate during the vegetative regrowth period are briefly discussed. © 1982 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.