Lucerne Altiva is a high-yielding forage crop variety distinguished by its high forage quality and adaptability to various soil types and climatic conditions. This variety is characterized by high protein content, making it a valuable source of plant-based protein for animal feeding. Due to selection for the Mediterranean ecotype, Altiva has a dormancy level of 7–8, ensuring a short winter growth pause and rapid vegetation resumption in regions with mild winters. The plant has slender stems and abundant leaves, contributing to its high forage value.
Altiva exhibits high resistance to diseases and pests, promoting stable yields. Seeding density is 25–30 kg per hectare. Lucerne grows rapidly in spring and after cutting, providing 2–3 cuttings per summer, and up to 4–5 cuttings with irrigation. The best yields of hay and green mass are achieved in areas with adequate moisture and irrigated lands.
In addition to its high forage value, lucerne Altiva plays an important role in improving soil fertility. Through symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing rhizobial bacteria, the plant accumulates nitrogen from the atmosphere in its roots and stubble, contributing to soil enrichment with nutrients and improving its structure. Over its 2–3 year lifespan, lucerne can accumulate up to 300 kg of nitrogen per hectare, equivalent to applying 40–60 tons of manure. The decomposed biomass becomes an easily accessible fertilizer, reducing soil acidity and improving its quality. Lucerne Altiva is also an excellent predecessor for cotton, cereal crops, and other crops, positively influencing crop rotation for several years.
