Abstract:

The root morphological characteristics of 18 alfalfa varieties were researched, the results showed that: root morphological indexes were significantly different among alfalfa varieties. Using the 10 morphological indexes of root system, 18 varieties could be clustered into 4 groups through clustering analysis. It is suggested alfalfa varieties selection could be based on larger crown diameter and lateral root diameter, deeper crown depth, long taproot length, developed lateral root.