Alfalfa, also known as VELA, is a perennial herb with quadrangular stems that can be erect, decumbent, or bushy, reaching a height of up to 80 centimeters. The root system of alfalfa is powerful and deep, capable of penetrating the soil to a depth of up to 10 meters, which ensures the plant's high resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions. The leaves are oblong and entire, located on petioles, while the flowers have a blue-violet hue. The fruits are spiral-shaped and contain seeds resembling buds. Alfalfa grows in regions of Western Asia, the Balkans, as well as in warm areas of Europe, Australia, and North Africa, preferring meadows, forest clearings, and areas near rivers.
This plant is valued not only as a fodder crop but also for its beneficial properties. Alfalfa is rich in trace elements and vitamin C, has a general strengthening effect, helps normalize the menstrual cycle and enhances milk secretion in women. It has a diuretic effect, helps protect the skin from sunburn, and aids in restoring strength by reducing fatigue and supporting the body during rehabilitation. Additionally, alfalfa improves blood vessel elasticity, prevents the development of atherosclerosis, normalizes blood sugar levels, lowers blood pressure, has anti-tumor properties, boosts immunity, and regulates pituitary gland activity.
The variable alfalfa variety, belonging to the variegated hybrid sortotype, is characterized by a medium-early maturity period and a short flowering period. It develops well on weakly acidic and neutral soils, is resistant to lodging, and is winter-hardy. The yield of dry mass reaches 10-11 tons per hectare, while seed yield varies from 250-300 kg in the Non-Black Earth zone to 800 kg in forest-steppe and steppe zones. In the Non-Black Earth region, the variety forms two cuts, while in southern regions, it ensures high seed yield even in the year of sowing. Due to its winter hardiness, drought resistance, and developed root system, alfalfa is widely used for producing hay, green mass, and seeds, as well as for soil stabilization and providing animals with nutrients.
