Effect of Final Cutting for Fodder on Seed Yield and Seed Quality in Berseem

The study was conducted to determine the appropriate time of final culling (closing) for fodder to optimise the seed yield and seed quality in berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.). Based on 2 years' experimentation, the maximum seed yield was obtained when the final cut for fodder was taken in mid•March and the crop was then closed for seed. Seed yield was reduced drastically when the final cut was delayed to late March•April. The seed quality parameters of standard germination, seed weight and vigour index were also reduced when the final cut for fodder was delayed to late March•early April. Based on the results, it has been proposed that for higher seed yield and better quality of berseem seed, the final cut for fodder should be taken before mid March and then the crop should be closed for seed production.