The effect of alternate row sowing method on the establishment of legumes

The objective of this study is to increase the establishment of legumes in pasture swards so that they have a better survival rate in a sward. Therefore, this study hypothesizes that better establishment of legumes can be achieved through alternate row sowing method than mixed sowing method. In theory, this method minimizes the inter-specific competition because there is extra space between legume seeds and grass seeds. So, legumes could have their own space which is beneficial for their growth. Above ground, more space means grasses are unlikely to shade out legumes in early establishment phase. This extra space would lead to better legume growth at the establishment phase. Below ground, with more spaces provided, the unique tap roots system of legumes does not need to fight with grass roots for micronutrients and macronutrients. Hence, legumes can forage nutrients with less competition from grasses.