Forage Seed Production, Volume 1

The grasses and legumes grown in pastures and rangelands form the basis of the world-wide animal production industry. These species are also a significant part of the billion dollar sport and leisure industry through their use in playing surfaces such as golf courses. It is therefore vitally important to ensure that appropriate species, and mixtures of species are developed for use on a commercial scale. This book is published in association with the International Herbage Seed Production Research Group. It brings together the leading specialists in the area of forage seed production and along with its companion volume "Forage Seed Production Volume 2: Tropical and Sub-Tropical Species" provides a resource for all those concerned with the breeding and profitable use of grasses and legumes within grazing systems or recreation and amenity provision. The book covers all the various elements of concern to the commercial breeder, for example the seed industry's need for a high yield of seed from a grass or legume primarily used for its high quality herbage attributes. This book and its sister volume dealing with tropical species is suitable for seed scientists involved in the breeding and commercial production of grass and legume seed. These two volumes also represent a useful text for all commercial seed suppliers. Additionally the information presented within the book is appropriate for all students and lecturers within departments of agriculture and plant breeding.