Effect of drip irrigation on different varieties of alfalfa in Xinjiang

In order to select alfalfa (Medicago sativa) varieties adapted to drip irrigation cultivation in northern Xinjiang areas, and provide the basis for theories of drip irrigation cultivation techniques in artificial forage planting applications, we studied the effects of drip irrigation cultivation techniques on 13 alfalfa varieties appropriate for cultivation in the northern Xinjiang area. The results showed that Magnum Ⅶ, WL319HQ, and SK3010 easy planting were successful varieties under the conditions of drip irrigation, while Longmu 806 and Longmu 801 were not. Results for yield characteristics showed that the 4010 hay had the highest yield, and had high cold resistance but low light and temperature sensitivity, and it was most appropriate for drip irrigation cultivation in local areas. The SK3010 variety had high cold resistance, which made it suitable for cold areas. The WL343HQ and WL319HQ varieties grew slower before the winter season and were inappropriate for irrigation cultivation. The Magnum Ⅶ, WL363HQ and WL354HQ hay yield was equal to Suntory (Control). The 4010, Magnum Ⅶ, WL363HQ and WL354HQ varieties were more suitable for planting in a drip irrigation cultivation mode.