Depth of Sowing for “Laramie” Medic (Medicago rigidula) Seedlings Emergence

Abstract

Sound sowing practices for “Laramie” medic (Medicago rigidula [L.] Allioni) are needed in the U.S. Central High Plains to ensure its successful establishment. The objective of this study was to investigate the optimum depth of seed sowing for Laramie medic seedlings emergence in comparison with alfalfa (M. sativa L.) and winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings emergence. Results showed alfalfa and medic had significantly greater percent emergence from the top 0 to 20 and 10 to 30 mm sowing depths, respectively, while winter wheat had significantly greater emergence from the top 10 to 60 mm sowing depths. This study found the optimum sowing depth for Laramie medic seedling emergence to be in the range of 10 to 30 mm with varying peaks within the range depending on moisture availability.