Second regrowth phase generative characteristics of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) with addition of lighting duration and dolomites

Abstract

Abstract This study determines generative growth characteristics of alfalfa in second regrowth with the addition of dolomite and extended photoperiod. This study used a completely randomized design tested via Least Significant Difference. Dolomite was added at 0, 6 and 12 ton/ha. Photoperiod was varied at 12, 14 and 16 hours. The results conclude that extended photoperiod promoted alfalfa growth. Lengthier exposure to lighting promoted faster flowering and greater proportions of pod emergence and pod ripening. The addition of dolomite levels did not affect generative growth, except in the percentage of pods per plants. The addition of 16-hour lighting duration improved the second regrowth stage of alfalfa as compared to 14 and 12-hour photoperiods. The result yielded 61.63% seed purity and 13.33% seed viability.