Determining the yield and quality characteristics of different alfalfa varietes under bilecik ecological conditions

This research was established to determine the yield and quality characteristics of 22 different alfalfas (Medicago sativa L.) varieties in different dormancy groups under Bilecik ecological conditions. Ranger, Toros, Blue Moon. SW 6330, Frigos, Galaxie, Timbale, Prosomenti, Kalender, Nimet, Özpınar, Queen, Planet, Gea, Safkan, Alphil, Verdor, Gözlü 1, Artemis, Tomris, Delta, Azzurra varieties were used. The experiment was carried out in the experimental area of the Agricultural Application and Research Center of Bilecik Şeyh Edebali University, in the vegetation period of 2020-2022, according to the randomized complete block design. In this study, plant height, dry matter yield, crude protein yield, ADF, NDF, and mineral content (Ca, Mg, P, K) of alfalfa varieties were determined. In the average of 6 cuttings, the highest plant height was determined in Nimet with 76.8 cm while the shortest height was determined in Safkan with 59.2 cm. When the hay yield results of obtained from the total six cuttings of the cultivated varieties were examined, the lowest hay yield was obtained from Ranger which was in the 3 dormancy group with 1249.5 kg/da, and the highest hay yield was obtained from Nimet which was in the 8 dormancy group with 2119.9 kg/da. Crude protein yield of alfalfa cultivars ranged between 282.8 – 444.9 kg/da, ADF ratios ranged between % 30.9 – 36.8, NDF ratios ranged between % 41.6 – 47.8, phosphorus ratios ranged between % 0.36 – 0.39, potassium ratios ranged between % 2.62 – 2.89, calcium ratios ranged between % 1.32 – 1.48 and magnesium ratios varied between % 0.26 – 0.30. The highest hay yield was obtained from Nimet variety. As a result of this study, it was determined that Özpınar, Nimet, Kalender and Prosomenti varieties, which are in the 5,7 and 8 dormancy groups, are the most suitable varieties in terms of yield and quality in Bilecik ecological conditions. In addition, considering these results, it has been observed that the varieties in the 8 dormancy groups, which are suitable for coastal climate conditions, can also be grown in regions with transition zone climate conditions such as Bilecik, without loss of yield and quality.