The variable alfalfa variety Sibirskaya 8 is a mid-season multigeneric variety that is distinguished by its high forage and seed productivity, especially under non-irrigated conditions. The plant is characterized by a semi-erect bush of medium height with green leaves of medium intensity and medium central leaflet length. The flowers are predominantly blue-purple, which is the distinctive feature of the variety. The stem at full bloom is of medium length, which facilitates harvesting and processing.
Sibirskaya 8 has high winter hardiness and drought tolerance, making it particularly valuable for cultivation in the harsh climatic conditions of the Western Siberian and Eastern Siberian regions, as well as in the forest-steppe zones of the Krasnoyarsk Territory. The variety grows rapidly in spring and after mowing, providing stable and high dry matter yields, averaging about 39-48 c/ha, which exceeds the average regional indicators. The maximum yield recorded in trial plots reached over 100 c/ha.
Alfalfa Sibirskaya 8 is widely used in agriculture for the production of various forage products, such as hay, silage, grass meal, granules, pellets, and compound silages. Green mass contains a significant amount of protein — on average about 16%, making it a valuable source of nutrients for animals. To achieve maximum productivity, it is recommended to adhere to agronomic requirements, including proper fertilization, timely mowing, and autumn top-dressing.
