Elf

Lomko-kolosnik sitnikoviy (ELF) – a perennial pasture grass from the Poaceae family, widely distributed in nature and valuable as a fodder crop. The plant is distinguished by high drought- and salt-tolerance, longevity, and good fodder quality, making it in demand for livestock farms, especially under dry climate conditions.

ELF is characterized by a dense, perennial stem system reaching about 65 cm in height. Leaves are stiff, bluish-green, 2–3 cm long, without auricles, while spikelets reach 9–11 cm in length and 0.6–0.8 cm in width. Ears are dense and easily break above the middle, which facilitates harvest collection. Flowering occurs in June, fruiting in July, and seeds develop on two-flowered spikelets.

ELF seeds possess enhanced germination energy and growth strength: upon tetraploidization, there is an increase in the size of stomata and pollen grains by 20–27%, as well as larger seeds, leading to an increase in pasture mass yield. Tetraploids CC-14 demonstrate superiority over control varieties in terms of fodder quality and overall productivity. Thanks to resistance to diseases and unfavorable conditions, ELF improves soil structure, reduces weed growth, and increases soil water retention properties, making it a valuable component in agronomic systems.

Seeds of lomko-kolosnik sitnikoviy ELF are suitable for sowing both in spring and autumn, depending on regional climatic conditions. Their use contributes to increased pasture productivity and resilience of fodder chains to adverse factors.