Identification of promising alfalfa varieties in conditions of the southern forest-steppe zone (Republic of Bashkortostan): a study of economic and biological characteristics

Background Alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) is one of the most important forage crops, but its seed productivity varies from year to year due to weather conditions. Alfalfa is a forage crop rich in nutrients which makes it valuable. The present 5-year study aimed to identify the promising alfalfa varieties based on their economic and biological characteristics, such as high seed productivity, a high yield of forage mass, good quality, and stress resistance. Results The study contributes information about the promising varieties of alfalfa characterized by high biomass and seed productivity. Varieties such as P-88044, U-73+149 and S-302 had stable seed/green mass yields regardless of climatic conditions; hence, they may be used for alfalfa selection in the southern forest-steppe regions of Bashkortostan. Conclusions The present findings can be used for alfalfa selection in the Republic of Bashkortostan (Russia). In addition, the results will be of interest to crop breeders across the globe.