THE DELAYED APPLICATION OF NITROGEN FOR THE ESTABLISHMENT OF SURFACE-SEEDED SWARDS

It has been observed that, where surface seeding has been attempted, disappointing results occur on some sites due to delays in sowing the seeds mixture after lime and fertilizer applications have been made.
An experiment is described in which the time of application of nitrogen, in relation to the establishment and development of S24 and S23 perennial ryegrass seedlings in pots, was varied. The results of trials on this aspect of surface seeding, under conditions experienced in the north of Scotland, are also given.
More efficient utilization of nitrogen was obtained when applications were delayed until the seedlings had developed sufficiently to utilize the applied nitrogen. This delay enhanced the establishment of sown grasses under conditions where natural species, capable of responding to applied nitrogen, were present.
Where surface seeding is undertaken, consideration should be given to delaying the application of nitrogen until the sown seeds have brairded.