Experimental Study on Establishment of Hypochoeris radicata L. Swards by Sowing and their Vegetational Management by Mowing

Abstract

Several laboratory and field experiments were carried out to create attractive wild flower grasslands by sowing and to maintain them by mowing. Hypochoeris radicata L. was used as the material.
The germination rate of the fresh seeds were above 60% at 10-25°C under the light conditions whereas similar percentages were obtained in 10-20°C under dark conditions. The germination rate of seeds stratified at 3°C were above 80% in 10-30°C under the light conditions.The seeds stored below 30°C and under dry conditions, maintained their initial germination ability for at least one year.
More than 60% of the H. radicata L. seeds sown in the out-door pots germinated within 30 days of sowing throughout the year, except in December and January. Sowing from April to June made flowers open and established new seedlings within that year.
Three mowing treatments in a year, in June, August and October, to the H. radicata L. sward at 3cm above ground level brought moderate inhibition of strong growth of the plants and the removal of the dead flower stalks. Due to the mowing treatments, the aesthetic period was able to be prolonged until autumn. Moreover, the H. radicata L. sward will show aesthetic flowering even if it is mowed twice a year, in August and November.