Characterization of Forage Crop Associations (Grass x Legume) in the Semi Arid Zone

This study presents the results of two years of rigorous experimentation in the semi-arid High Plains of Algeria, comparing the agronomic, physiological, and water-use performance of two forage associations: barley-vetch and triticale-vetch. The triticale-vetch mixture demonstrated superiority across all parameters, including a 60% higher grain yield, increased biomass, enhanced water use efficiency, and greater resilience to water stress. The research highlights the importance of species selection, irrigation management, and spatial adaptation to develop sustainable forage systems that can withstand climate change. It recommends optimizing seeding ratios, favoring triticale and reducing barley use due to its competitive effect on vetch.

Pagina's: 62, Paperback, Eliva Press