Botanical Name: Medicago sativaChromosome Number: 2n = 32
Origin:
Lucerne (also known as alfalfa) is believed to have originated in Central Asia.
Geographical Distribution:
Lucerne is now widely distributed and cultivated in various regions across the world, including North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Economic Importance:
Lucerne is an important forage crop due to its high nutritional value and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. It is commonly used for hay production, grazing, and as a cover crop. Lucerne also has medicinal uses and is used as a herbal remedy in some cultures.
Soil and Climatic Requirements:
Lucerne grows well in deep, well-drained soils with a pH between 6 and 7.5. It prefers loamy or sandy soils with good organic matter content. Lucerne is adapted to a wide range of climates but performs best in regions with mild winters and moderate summer temperatures. It requires a minimum of 450-500 mm of annual rainfall or access to irrigation.
Seed Rate:
The recommended seed rate for lucerne is around 20-25 kg per hectare.
Spacing:
The ideal spacing between rows in lucerne cultivation is about 30-40 cm.
Seed Treatment:
Lucerne seeds can be treated with a fungicide to protect against seed-borne diseases before planting.
Varieties:
There are several varieties of lucerne available, and the choice of variety depends on factors such as intended use, local climate, and soil conditions. Some popular varieties include 'Ladak', 'Swedish', 'Pioneer', 'Sardi 6', and 'WL Alfalfa'.
Cultural Practices:
1. Land Preparation: Prepare the land by plowing and harrowing to a fine tilth.
2. Sowing: Lucerne can be sown either by broadcasting the seeds or through drill seeding. Sow the seeds at the recommended seed rate and cover them with a thin layer of soil.
3. Irrigation: Provide adequate irrigation after sowing to ensure good germination. Once established, lucerne requires regular but controlled watering.
4. Weed Control: Keep the field weed-free by regular weeding and use of herbicides as necessary.
5. Fertilization: Apply organic manure or compost before planting. Regular soil testing can help determine the need for additional fertilizers.
6. Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests such as aphids and leafhoppers, and control them with appropriate insecticides. Common diseases affecting lucerne include leaf spot, root rot, and crown rot, which can be managed through proper crop rotation, disease-resistant varieties, and fungicide treatments if necessary.
Yield:
The yield of lucerne can vary depending on various factors such as variety, management practices, and growing conditions. On average, a well-maintained lucerne crop can yield around 10-15 tons of dry matter per hectare per year.
