Late Fall vs Spring Seeding in the Establishment of Crested Wheatgrass in the Zarand Saveh Region of Iran

Abstract

Seeding to adopted forage species is one of the most effective means for restoring Iranian rangelands to full forage production. Observation and study of native vegetation response to reduced grazing has indicated an unexpected potential for forage production. The severely deteriorated condition of much of the native rangeland, however, does not leave an alternative to reseeding. Fall seeding of crested wheatgrass is favored over spring seeding because (1) a higher percentage of seedling establishment is realized, (2) more vigorous seedlings are obtained, and (3) seeded stands can be utilized from the end of the second year.