The Effect of Irrigation Water Quality and Leaching Ratio on Some Yield Parameters in Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.)

Abstract

This study was carried out over the experimental fields of Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture Gümüşdere Campus. Experiments were conducted with 3 different irrigation water salinity levels (S1=0.25 dS/m – control/tap water, S2=1.5 dS/m, S3=3.0 dS/m) and 4 different leaching ratios (LF1=10%, LF2 =20%, LF3 = 35%, LF4=50%) in randomized plots factorial experimental design with 3 replications. Totally, 36 (3×4×3) lysimeters were used in present experiments. Plant height, fresh and dry herbage yield and total ash content of alfalfa plants were analyzed. With increasing salinity levels, plant height, fresh and dry herbage yields decreased and total ash contents increased. Positive effects of leaching applications were observed, but this effect was not found to be significant. The main reason for this situation may be the necessity of a good drainage system for a good leaching application.

Keywords

• alfalfa
• water quality
• leaching ratio
• yield
• salinity