The effect of weed frequency in the overall alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) productivity, case study from Kosovo

Abstract

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) represents an important leguminous forage crop in farming as well as in systems of animal husbandry. It is known for its wide usage for grazing, hay, silage as well as in the form of green manure and cover crop. Our study aims to assess the influence of weeds on quality and quantity of three different aged alfalfa plots. A list of registered weed plant species divided by harvesting periods on each of the surveyed plots is offered. The biomass productivity and its correlation to the effects of artificial fertilizers, alfalfa age and the frequency of weeds are provided. We concluded that using mineral fertilizers in a controlled manner will help to reduce considerably the amount of weeds and also that alfalfa crops will be best to be replaced after four years as its productivity will start afterwards to drop sharply, whereas the number and frequency of weeds will increase conversely.

Keywords

• alfalfa
• weed management
• forage crops