Differential Seed Production of Alfalfa Clones at Two Diverse Locations 1

Twenty‐three alfalfa clones selected from the breeding program at the University of Kentucky were grown at Lexington, Ky., and at Prosser, Wash., in 1962 and 1963. Data were taken on date of bloom and seed yields. Flowering began later at Lexington than at Prosser in both years, but clipping at Lexington in 1963 prevented a direct comparison between locations. The range in days to first flower within the group was greater at Prosser but was considered slight in relation to the long pollination period at Prosser. Seed yields were higher at Prosser in both years. A substantial differential in seed yields of the clones at the two locations was revealed. It was concluded that seed‐yield data from alfalfa clones grown in Kentucky could not be used to predict the reproductive capability of the clones in an environment which favors a more complete expression of seedyield potential. A correlation of r = .86 between the lst‐year and 2nd‐year seed yields indicates that clones could be screened for seed yields at Prosser in the 1st year.