Relationship between agroclimatic conditions and seed quality and seedling growth of crimson clover

This study investigated the relationship between seed quality parameters (germination, dormancy, initial shoot and root growth) of crimson clover originating from six locations in eastern Serbia and the agroclimatic conditions over a three-year period. The results indicate significantly higher seed germination rates at temperatures of 20°C and 25 °C compared to 15 °C. A positive and statistically significant (p≤0.05) to very strong (p≤0.001) correlation was observed between mean monthly temperatures in May and seed dormancy. In contrast, a significant negative (p≤0.05) to strong (p≤0.01) correlation was found between total monthly precipitation in May and seed germination. No statistically significant correlations were identified between mean monthly temperatures in March and April and any of the seed quality parameters or seedling growth traits. Similarly, no statistically significant correlation was found between total precipitation in March and April and seed quality indicators. In light of global warming predictions and rising temperatures, these findings underscore the importance of adopting agronomic practices, such as seed treatment, to mitigate dormancy and increase germinable seed rates.