The natural reseeding of plantain (Plantago lanceolata L.) in a sward mix containing plantain, chicory (Cichorium intybus L.), red clover (Trifolium pratense L.) and white clover (Trifolium repens L.) was monitored under conventional dairy grazing management between January and September 2015 in Manawatu, New Zealand. Measurements included numbers of seedlings emerging, and survival of tagged seedlings and their contribution to sward population densities. Seedling numbers ranged between 17-368 seedlings per m 2 and varied (P < 0.05) between paddocks and gradients (>15° slope versus flat). The time of seedling emergence had no effect (P > 0.05) on seedling survival; however seedling survival varied considerably (P < 0.05) between the paddocks (26% versus 76%), with higher survival following mechanical topping prior to the start of the study. Overall, at the end of the study, plantain seedlings contributed 14% of the total plantain shoots in the sward and plantain shoot density either increased or remained stable during the study period. The current study suggests that natural reseeding of plantain is significant under conventional grazing management and could be used as a management tool to maintain or increase plantain shoot density.

Onion white rot disease (Sclerotium cepivorum) is a serious production problem throughout the world. Very low pathogen level in the soil can cause significant loss. Generic integrated pest management programs include clean seed, site selection, sanitation, crop rotation, biological and chemical controls, crop resistance to the pest, and other components. Onion white rot disease management currently does not have crop resistance as a component. The lack of resistant germplasm and/or the inability to identify and screen potentially resistant germplasm are primary reasons. Research was conducted to determine if field screening for resistance is feasible, to define field screening methodology, and to identify and/or quantify resistance. Disease incidence was inconsistent from year to year. In some years, disease expression was high; in others, disease was low. Uniform pathogen level and disease expression throughout the experimental field were required for successful screening. Results provide evidence that “resistant” or “tolerant” germplasm does exist, and that disease “resistance”, “tolerance”, or “susceptibility” can vary from slight to strong, suggesting multigenic involvement. “Resistance”/”tolerance” was identified in long-day yellow hybrids and inbreds. `Southport White Globe' selections and derivatives had much higher disease susceptibility than yellow or brown skin lines screened.