FLORA 8 is a mid-season variety of variable alfalfa belonging to the variegated-hybrid type. This variety is distinguished by its high fodder and seed productivity, especially under non-irrigated conditions, making it in demand for regions with limited water supply. FLORA 8 possesses high winter hardiness and drought resistance, and grows quickly in spring and after mowing, which contributes to stable and prolonged use in fodder production. The average yield of dry matter in the region is about 48.2 c/ha, which exceeds the average standard by 3.2 c/ha, and the protein content in the dry matter of green mass reaches an average of 16.3%, with a maximum value of up to 24.0%. Alfalfa FLORA 8 is also characterized by high green mass yield - on average 31.5 t/ha, dry matter - 8.3 t/ha, and seeds - 0.13 t/ha. In the composition of green mass, the protein content reaches 19.4%, and fiber - 30.6%. The variety is distinguished by its weak susceptibility to pests, which reduces the need for the application of chemical protection means and contributes to the ecological safety of production. Due to its agronomic qualities, FLORA 8 is a reliable choice for cultivation in conditions of the West Siberian region and similar climatic zones. Cultivated alfalfa, to which the FLORA 8 variety belongs, is a perennial herbaceous plant with upright four-sided stems 30 to 90 cm high. Leaves are compound, trifoliate, with an elliptic or lanceolate shape, and flowers are small, blue-violet, gathered in spike-like heads. Flowering occurs in June-July, and fruits ripen in August-September. For sowing, it is recommended to use seeds with pre-scarification and treatment with biopreparations for protection against fungal and bacterial diseases. The optimal sowing depth on loessial chernozems is 0.5-1.5 cm, and the sowing rate in pure form is 15-18 kg per hectare. Such an approach ensures good germination and plant development, which contributes to obtaining a high yield and improving soil condition due to health improvement and increased activity of soil microorganisms.
