Sarga

The variety has been developed by creation of complex-hybrid populations on the basis of 3 self-fertile lines.

The variety produces large volumes of dry matter both in dryland management conditions (6.5‑9.0 t/ha) and on irrigation (10.5‑14.2 t/ha).
Maximum seed yield: 1.04 t/ha at Sarapul variety testing plot

Northern, Northwestern, Volga-Vyatka, Central Black Soil, Ural, Western and Eastern Siberian regions

The plant height in spring is from low to medium. The flowering time is medium. The occurrence of plants with mixed flowers is high.
The species is characterised by high environmental plasticity and good regrowth in spring as well as after cuts. It is more winter hardy than purple alfalfa, thus more promising for areas with extreme climatic conditions.

Early spring seeding, without cover crops.

The time from the beginning of vegetation until the first cut is from 64 up to 70 days.

For seed production, wide‑row planting is recommended: 1.5–2.0 million pcs/hа.
For green forage: seeding in rows without a cover crop — 18–20 kg/ha

Alfalfa poorly tolerates acidic soils with РН < 5,5. It is seeded after cereal crops. Particular attention needs to be paid to leveling the surface prior to seeding. For this purpose, extra rolling with packer wheels is recommended following seeding, which will enhance the emergence. Upon seeding, up to 120 kg/ha of phosphorus and potassium fertiliser may be applied

The variety is resistant to major diseases, root rots and pest infestations.

Pre‑sowing seed treatment against root rots and timely application of insecticides against pests

Forage, haylage.