Production performance and nutritional value of 12 alfalfa cultivars in a semi-arid zone

In order to determine the yield and nutritional value of different alfalfa cultivars in semi-arid areas, we evaluated 12 alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) varieties in the National Regional Test Station in Lanzhou using a completely randomized block design. According to the theory of grey system correlation degree, the comprehensive evaluation of eight nutritional indexes (crude protein, crude fat, crude ash, crude fiber, crude fiber, water content, nitrogen free extract, calcium, and phosphorus) of different alfalfa cultivars was carried out. The results showed that the plant height and hay yield were significantly different among different alfalfa varieties (P<0.05). During the two years of study, hay yield decreased from the first to the third harvest. The Average heights of Zhongmu No.3, Gannong No.3, Gannong No.5, Zhongmu No.5, and Kangsai were higher than that of the other varieties tested. Hay yield of Gannong 5, Gannong 3, and Adina were higher than that of the other varieties tested. There were additional differences in the nutritional quality of different alfalfa varieties and the quality of Gannong No.5 and Zhongmu No.3 were the best, followed by that of Gannong No. 3, Zhongmu No. 5, and Kang Sai. Based on the production performance and nutritional value, Gannong No. 5, Zhongmu No. 3, Gannong No. 3, Zhongmu No. 5, and Kangsai had excellent production performance, high nutritional value, and outstanding comprehensive traits, and these five cultivars are suitable for cultivation in the alfalfa hay production areas in the semi-arid regions of the Loess Plateau.