3.3. Above-ground growth
Dry matter production and its growth pattern varied among
cropping seasons (Fig. 3). In 2006 and 2007, mean dry matter
weights at maturity were similar, around 600 g m2, with different
patterns of crop growth. Post-anthesis growth in 2006 was
severely reduced due to the lack of rainfall, while in 2007, the
crop growth was reduced during pre-anthesis period and high
growth during post-anthesis period. In 2008, crop growth was
400 g m2 on average under conservation tillage systems, and the
crop failed to grow under CT. In 2009, crop growth was the greatest
of all seasons, and mean weights at maturity were up to
1000 g m2.