Effects of different Rhizobium strains on yield and the related traits in alfalfa

To select suitable Rhizobium for inoculating alfalfa in the irrigation area of northern Ningxia,the test for Rhizobium inoculation was conducted in golden- queen alfalfa using 4 kinds of Rhizobia including 3134141,N1101,352001,Zhongnong No. 1. The results showed that the nodulation rates and the number of nodules of the seedlings of alfalfa using the two kinds of Rhizobia including 3137141 and N1101 were increased by 98%,94% and 169%,150% compared with the control,respectively; and the hay yield and plant height of alfalfa were increased by 37. 61%,20. 82% and 15. 58%,12. 99 % compared with the control. The results indicate that the two kinds of Rhizobia are used to inoculate the alfalfa in the irrigation area of northern Ningxia,they can obviously improve the productive performance of alfalfa,and are suitable for large- scale promotion.