Investigating the yield and fodder quality of native sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) populations in Isfahan region

Sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) is one of the most important ancient fodder plants with special adaptability andSainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia Scop.) is one of the most important ancient fodder plants with special adaptability and quality that is cultivated in many parts of Iran. A field experiment in form of complete block design with three replications was conducted in Research Station of Agricultural and Natural Resources Research of Isfahan province during 2013- 2015. Twenty native populations from various regions of Iran were tested. Morphological characteristics, yield and fodder quality of plants was measured. According to results, there was less than 10 days difference among populations from planting to flowering stage. The phenological stages (beginning of spring growth, flowering time) in the second year began earlier than that of the first year. Maximum leaf number (127) and leaf/stem ratio (2.5) were obtained in Oshnavieh and 2759, respectively. PLC produced the highest dry matter content (31.27%) and dry forage yield (3179.3 kg ha-1) among populations. Populations also differed in terms of fodder quality. Most populations had adequate yield and quality potential for livestock feeding. Regarding variation in different traits among populations, each population can be used for different goals such as breeding programs, soil conservation and production of high dry matter yield. In generally, 3001 and 13535 populations (tolerant to powdery mildew disease) with acceptable forage yield and quality can be recommended in Isfahan climatic conditions. .