Comparison of Yield and Adaptation of Two Lolium perenne L. Varieties under High-Andean Conditions in Acobamba, Huancavelica

Abstract

This research aimed to compare the forage yield and agronomic adaptability of two Lolium perenne L. (Rye Grass) varieties —Tama and Wester— under high-Andean conditions in the district of Acobamba, Huancavelica (Perú). Morphophysiological and productive variables were evaluated at 60 and 105 days after sowing, including plant establishment, plant height, fresh weight, dry matter content, root length and weight, and number of tillers. A completely randomized design was used with two treatments and three replications. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test for independent samples at a 5 % significance level. The results showed significant differences in favor of the Wester variety for plant establishment, plant height, fresh weight, and dry matter content, especially at 105 days, indicating more vigorous growth and better adaptation to the high-altitude environment. No significant differences were observed in root traits or number of tillers, although Tama showed a slight tendency for higher tillering. It is concluded that the Wester variety demonstrates superior agronomic and productive performance under high-Andean conditions and represents a promising alternative for the establishment of permanent or rotational pastures in similar regions. Further trials under different agronomic management and over multiple growing seasons are recommended.