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Abstract
Seed yield in Lotus corniculatus L. is primarily determined by the number of inflorescences and the number of fertile shoots. Shoot manipulation is therefore one possible approach to increasing seed yield. This study investigated the effects of the plant growth regulator PP333 (paclobutrazol) on shoot growth and seed production of Lotus corniculatus L. This chemical was applied at different plant development stages during a 2-year experimental period and its effects on plant growth, branching behaviour, photosynthetic activity, assimilate partitioning pattern, seed yield components, and final seed yield were examined at two sites using spaced plants and swards. PP333 improved seed yield mainly through enhancement of branching. It had no beneficial effect on general plant growth and on facilitating assimilate translocation to reproductive parts. Use of this chemical on spaced plants and sward crops gave different responses. Early (pre-flowering) applications of PP333 improved seed yield in Lotus corniculatus more than later application.