Variability and Correlation Between the Seed Yield, Seed Yield Components and Quality of Alfalfa Seed

Abstract

Seed yield and seed yield components (stem height, number of stems per m(2), panicle branches) and quality of alfalfa seed (germination and mean seed weight), were studied for 3 years of research. Three cultivars of alfalfa from Serbia (NS-Slavija, NS-Medtjana and Zajecarska 83) and French cultivar Europe were observed. In the sowing year, the highest variability was determined for seed yield (CV=56.6%) and percent of dormant seed (CV=19%), while other traits showed low variability. The lowest variability was determined for seed germination (CV=0.2%). In the 2nd and 3rd year, the highest variability was determined for percent of dormant seed (B-1 CV=13.6% and 132 CV=13.7%) and for seed yield (B-1 CV=7.4% and B-2 CV=17.5%). Other investigated traits expressed low variability. The lowest variability was expressed in seed germination (B-1 CV=1.0% and B-2 CV=0.6%). Seed germination is in very strong positive correlation with yield (r=0.90). Number of secondary shoots in correlation with yield showed almost complete negative correlation (r=-0.94).