Sainfoin and birdsfoot trefoil variety trials (2008 – 2010)

From 2008 through 2010, Agroscope Reckenholz-Tänikon ART and Agroscope Changins-Wädenswil ACW research stations tested three varieties of sainfoin and five varieties of birdsfoot trefoil. The parameters assessed were forage yield, juvenile development, vigour, competitive ability, persistence, resistance to leaf diseases and winter conditions and the ability for cultivation at higher altitudes. For each variety, an index-value based on measurements and observations of yield was calculated, allowing an accurate comparison of the varieties. According to the results, one new variety of sainfoin (Perdix) will be added to the «List of recommended Varieties of Forage Plants». With birdsfoot trefoil, none of the new breeds tested reached the index-value required for recommendation. For both kind of leguminous, all the previously recommended varieties will be maintained on the «List of recommended Varieties».