PASTURE SEEDS 
24 pages
Published: 11 May 2026
Author(s): Kroehn, A.
ISBN: ISBN 978-1-76053-621-3
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Australia’s lucerne seed industry relies on strong yields and clear data to guide variety choice and management. The industry produces about $95 million of seed each year, with most production based in South Australia’s South East. To help growers improve seed yield and understand how new products perform, a two‑year project tested plant growth regulators (PGRs) and pod sealants on 31 lucerne varieties at Keith, SA.
The trials ran across three flood‑irrigated bays and compared standard farmer practice with PGR and pod sealant treatments. Researchers measured seed yield at commercial harvest each autumn. The PGR treatment increased seed yield in both years and showed a consistent response across all varieties. The pod sealant also lifted yield in some cases, but its results changed from year to year due to shifting seasonal conditions.
The project also confirmed clear yield differences between varieties. These results show that both PGRs and pod sealants can reduce seed loss and improve yield, but their success depends on the environment leading up to harvest. Because the trial ran for only two years and faced extreme weather, the industry needs more data before making firm recommendations.
Future work should test these products across more seasons and sites to support possible registration and wider industry use.
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