Agronomic studies on chou moellier (Brassica oleracea L.): I. The influence of seed-rate and thinning on the yield of chou moellier

The effects of seed-rates from 1–9 lb per acre on the yield and leaf: Stem ratio of chou moellier (Brassica oleracea L.) were studied over five seasons on two soil types, a fertile alluvial Manawatu silt loam and a less fertile Tokomaru silt loam. Varied sowing and yield sampling dates were used. In the final year, the influence of thinning was also studied. At the levels of plant population studied, there was no consistent effect on yield or leaf: stem ratio. The possible reasons for this result are discussed in terms of the availability of soil moisture and the penetration of light to the foliage.