Variety traits

Drought tolerance of alfalfa

Medicago sativa L.

A critical adaptive trait of alfalfa that determines the stability of green mass and seed yield, as well as stand longevity under moisture deficit conditions. It is evaluated using a drought sensitivity index and laboratory methods for simulating osmotic stress.

In the reference 20 varieties crop Alfalfa, where this is mentioned in the description.

To assess the drought tolerance of Medicago sativa, a field drought sensitivity index is used, calculated as the ratio of yield under stress conditions to potential productivity. In laboratory conditions, cultivar tolerance is determined by germinating seeds in sucrose solutions, where the key indicator is the maintenance of germination rates as the concentration of the osmotic agent increases.

Physiological evaluation includes monitoring the water-holding capacity of leaves and the status of the stomatal apparatus. Highly tolerant genotypes are characterized by minimal yield reduction during drought periods and a high capacity for regrowth after mowing.

Drought tolerance directly impacts the economic longevity of alfalfa stands by preventing stand thinning and plant loss. This trait also ensures stable seed productivity and maintains forage quality, preventing sharp changes in plant metabolism and the stem-to-leaf ratio.

General information about the subject — on the page Drought tolerance.

Sources8

Varieties of Alfalfa mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.