A single-factor randomized block design was used to measure the dry matter yield， dry-to-fresh ratio， crude protein content， and relative feed value of spring-sown ‘WL’ series alfalfa （Medicago sativa） varieties in the Horqin Sandy Land during the year of establishment. Multivariate analysis was employed to explore the effects of fall dormancy grade and type on the production performance. The results showed that the dry matter yield of the first and second cuttings accounted for over 60% of the total annual yield for all tested varieties， and the yield of the fourth cutting was significantly lower than that of the other cuttings （P<0.05）. ‘WL366HQ’and ‘WL349HQ’exhibited the highest total annual dry matter yield. Fall dormancy grade and type had no significant effects on dry weight or crude protein content， with negligible effect sizes， but significantly influenced relative feed value （P<0.05）. In conclusion： （1） For spring-sown alfalfa varieties in the Horqin Sandy Land， production performance during the year of establishment varied significantly among varieties and was not related to fall dormancy rating. （2） ‘WL349HQ’and ‘WL366HQ’ demonstrated the best production performance. The first and second cuttings contributed 60% of the total annual yield. Therefore， variety selection should prioritize total annual forage yield （i.e.， production performance） rather than fall dormancy rating.

Horqin Sandy Land  /  Alfalfa  /  Fall dormancy grade  /  The year of establishment  /  Production performance