Summary
This systematic review of 130 peer-reviewed studies across 35 countries and multiple agroecological zones evaluates Medicago sativa as a multifunctional forage legume for climate-smart agriculture. The evidence shows dry matter yields of 12–25 t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, protein content of 15–25%, and biological nitrogen fixation of 150–300 kg N ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹, alongside soil organic carbon gains of 0.3–0.8 t C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹. The authors conclude that alfalfa enhances feed security, reduces synthetic fertiliser dependence, and supports climate mitigation in both temperate and water-limited environments, whilst identifying breeding, extension, and policy priorities for wider adoption.
Regional applicability
Findings are applicable to United Kingdom grassland and forage production systems, particularly for nitrogen-fixation benefits and soil carbon sequestration in mixed farms and dairy operations. However, UK adoption remains limited; the review's emphasis on semi-arid and tropical adoption suggests UK policy and extension systems would benefit from targeted support for perennial legume integration under intensification pressures.
Key measures
Dry matter yield (t ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹), crude protein content (% dry matter), in vitro digestibility (%), biological nitrogen fixation (kg N ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹), soil organic carbon accumulation (t C ha⁻¹ yr⁻¹)
Outcomes reported
The review assessed agronomic performance, productivity, nutritional quality, and environmental contributions of Medicago sativa across 130 peer-reviewed studies in 35 countries. It quantified dry matter yields, protein content, biological nitrogen fixation, soil organic carbon sequestration, and identified research and policy priorities for climate-resilient adoption.
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