Assessment of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) fodder quality under IW/CPE ratios, sowing methods and phosphorus levels in South Saurashtra region of Gujarat, India

Irrigation and fertilization play the most important roles in producing hygienic fodder of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). This study investigates the effects of irrigation, sowing technique, and phosphorus on the quality of alfalfa fodder. The two-year experiment was conducted in a split-plot design with three replications. The study focused on scheduling irrigation based on the IW/CPE ratio (0.6, 0.8, and 1.0), sowing techniques (line sowing and broadcasting), and phosphorus levels (30, 50, 70, and 90 kg P2O5 ha-1 through SSP). The 0.6 IW/CPE ratio irrigation schedule recorded significantly higher RFV (%) and crude protein content. Significantly higher NDF and ADF (%) were recorded with the 1.0 IW/CPE ratio irrigation schedule. Phosphorus content had a significant effect on the quality parameters of the fodder. The application of 70 and 90 kg P2O5 ha-1wasfound to be at par with each other during both years as well as in the pooled results. The maximum RFV value was found with the 30 kg P2O5 ha-1 application. Regression analysis revealed a linear and negative association between RFV value and crude protein content and a linear and positive association between NDF and ADF. Maintaining an irrigation schedule of a 1.0 IW/CPE ratio consistently leads to enhanced alfalfa crude protein yield and fiber content, especially when assured irrigation water is available. Scarcity of water is major challenge during this time and use of phosphoorus fertilizer application in case per unit quantity has major importance in the legume based fodder crops. So that; this study will bring awareness about the production and productivity of fodder and better management of irrigation and phosphorus in this areas as we as other part of the country. Better use of natural resources (water) and agricultural inputs (phosphorus fertilizer) can ameliorate the effects of seasonality and improve the quality and productivity of alfalfa fodder in livestock production systems.