Response of Partridge Pea (Cassia fasciculata Michx.) and Korean Lespedeza (Lespedeza stipulacea L.) to Differences in Soil Types, Phosphorus Fertilization, and Plant Populations¹

Abstract

The growth rate and yield of plant parts of partridge pea were compared to those of Korean lespedeza on 5 soil types at 2 levels of phosphorus fertilization and at 4 levels of plant population. Partridge pea seemed to be able to tolerate lower soil phosphorus levels, adverse physical soil conditions, and extremely low and high plant populations with less adverse effect on yield. It was also able to respond more to added phosphorus on the soils with adverse physical conditions and low natural levels of available phosphorus. Korean lespedeza responded more to added phosphorus on the soil which naturally had good physical condition and was naturally fertile. Leaf area, per se, was not a factor.

Soil Factors and the Occurrence of Partridge Pea (Cassia Fasciculata Michx.) in Illinois

“…In another study (Foote and Jackobs 1966) partridge pea tolerated lower soil phosphorus levels, adverse physical soil conditions, and extremely low and high plant populations with less adverse effect on yield than Korean lespedeza ( Lespedeza stipulacea L.). Partridge pea also responded more than Korean lespedeza to added phosphorus on the soils with adverse physical conditions and low natural levels of available phosphorus.…”

Partridge Pea Management and Yield Comparisons with Other Annual Forage Legumes1

“…Low soil nitrate production and/or low levels of available phosphorus may restrict the growth of other species on sites where partridge pea occurs ( 3). Partridge pea seems to tolerate lower soil phosphorus levels, adverse physical soil conditions, and extremely low and high plant populations with less adverse effect on yield than Korean lespedeza ( Lespedeza stipulacea) ( 2).…”