Implications of field margin management on the ecology of Bromus sterilis.

Abstract

Deterioration of field boundaries as a consequence of misplaced fertilizer application may have contributed to an increase of undesirable species, such as Bromos sterilis.
The effects of nitrogen and competition on the vegetative and reproductive capacity of B. sterilis were investigated. Panicle number, spikelets per panicle, seed output and plant biomass were reduced to an increasing extent in the presence of Poa trivialis, Holcus lanatus and winter wheat respectively. Vegetative and reproductive capacity was positively correlated with nitrogen level.
The majority (92%) of seeds were disseminated less than 0.5m from source with a maximum dispersal of 1.75m.
It is concluded that prevention of fertiliser misplacement could reduce the competitive ability and fecundity of B. sterilis, whilst the inclusion of a boundary strip could further reduce seed ingress.