[Objective] Considering the serious salinity grassland in western Inner Mongolia

we chose two main compositions of the saline soil

NaCl and Na2SO4

mixed in 1:1 molarity salt solution

to test alfalfa germination characteristics and to choose salt-tolerant alfalfa varieties that were suitable for local production. This work was expected to provide theoretical basis for alfalfa production of Western Inner Mongolia saline meadows. [Methods] A series of mixed salt solution with 11 concentrations of 0.0%

0.2%

0.4%

0.6%

0.8%

1.0%

1.2%

1.4%

1.6%

1.8%

2.0% were used to test salt tolerant traits with regard to seed germination of 25 alfalfa varieties. Of which

germination rate

relative germination index and relatively simple seed vigor index were examined to rank salt-tolerant relevant varieties.[Results] Slight salt stress (0.2% and 0.4% salt concentrations) was observed that can promoted the alfalfa seed germination. Under the two concentrations

seed germination rate

relative germination index and relatively simple seed vigor index were all increased. Obvious differences of appropriate salt concentration

half lethal salt concentration and lethal salt concentration among different alfalfa varieties existed. For most varieties

their appropriate salt concentration was 0.0%~0.6%

and half lethal salt concentration was 0.8%. Zhongcao No.3 was an exception

its half lethal salt concentration reached 1.4%. Upper limit of salt concentrations varied between 1.0% and 2.0% mostly. [Conclusion] Considering both results of clustering method and germination index performance

we can concluded that Zhongcao No.3 and Xinmu No.2 alfalfa varieties showed better salt tolerance and belonged to tolerant varieties. On the contrary

magnumV-wet

Chimu No.1 presented worse salt tolerance and belonged to salt sensitive varieties.