A simulation model of competition between winter wheat and Avena fatua for light

Abstract

An eco‐physiological simulation model of competition between A vena fatua and winter wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. Avalon) for light was parameterised and tested. The model simulates growth of each species, in kg dry matter ha“1day‐1, from sowing to maturity as a function of irradiance, temperature and various species characteristics. Parameter values were derived from the literature and from field experiments with each species grown in monoculture. Model performance was tested against 50:50 mixtures of the two species grown at two sites in southern England. Sensitivity analyses were performed in which the canopy height of each species and the density and time of emergence of A fatua were sys..