The influence of sward competition on shoot growth and development of Senecio retrorsus, D.C.

Abstract

In each of two seasons the growth form of Senecio retrorsus plants in Natal Tall Grassveld differed in accordance with the degree of utilization of the grasses and thus the degree of competition offered. In rested veld the main stems of seedlings and mature plants were long and spindly while those in frequently clipped veld were robust and short stemmed. The development of reproductive structures occurred earlier in plants grown in clipped veld. Judicious veld management alone is not considered a solution to the Senecio problem.

Keywords: influences|swards|competition|shoots|growth|plants|development|growth forms|KwaZulu Natal Province|tall grasses|tall grassvelds|utilisations|grasses|veld|seedlings|maturation|reproductive systems|veld management|Eastern Cape Province|Transkei