Effect of BAS125 on low desert alfalfa growth and quality during the August production period

Abstract

Alfalfa was treated with five rates of BAS125 on August 5, 1997. Data were obtained to determine rate effects on stem regrowth (both height and width), trifoliate leaves, and yield. Variation in plot area affected some results. No statistical differences were noted for quality classification or yields, although increased protein levels were noted from BAS125 treatments. Increasing BAS125 rates resulted in significant decreases in plant height and significant increases in numbers of trifoliate leaves at nodes 1-6. Differences in stem diameters were also noted, with stem width affected by rate of BAS125 at lower portions of stem. Differences in stem diameters of upper parts of stems were primarily associated with plant height reductions as a function of BAS125 rate.