A method for increasing alfalfa seed yield using growth regulators

Abstract

This invention discloses a method for increasing alfalfa seed yield using growth regulators, comprising the following steps: (1) selecting a seed production area; (2) selecting a plot of land; (3) pre-sowing soil pretreatment; (4) sowing; (5) field management; and (6) harvesting and drying. In step (5): a sodium nitrophenolate solution is evenly sprayed during the budding stage at a dosage of 200 L / hm². 2 The sodium nitrophenolate solution has a mass concentration of 5.0–6.0 ppm. This invention employs a hill-seeding machine to precisely control the sowing depth and quantity, strictly controls the sowing density in alfalfa seed fields, and innovatively combines this with the application of optimal plant growth regulators to effectively increase alfalfa seed yield.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for increasing alfalfa seed yield, and more particularly to a method for increasing alfalfa seed yield using growth regulators. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, alfalfa seed yields are generally low, averaging only 20-30 kg per acre. The low yield is due to various factors, including small and scattered production areas, poor land conditions, outdated production technology, limited breeding of superior varieties, inconsistent seed quality, and low economic returns. Outdated production technology is a significant factor restricting the improvement of alfalfa seed yield. Seed field production technology determines plant density, field management efficiency, and seed yield. Hill sowing is a commonly used method that effectively controls plant spacing and improves land utilization. However, existing hill sowing equipment has many problems in practical application, such as: difficulty in accurately controlling sowing depth when the ground is uneven, as too deep or too shallow sowing affects seed germination rate and seedling growth; low sowing accuracy, making it impossible to consistently sow approximately the same number of alfalfa seeds in each planting hole, resulting in inconsistent sowing amounts, seed waste, uneven plant density, and negatively impacting the overall yield and quality of alfalfa.

[0003] In recent years, the use of plant growth regulators to control alfalfa growth and increase seed yield has become a new research focus. These chemicals can adjust the production and distribution of plant hormones, thereby altering the physiological state and growth patterns of plants, opening up new avenues for improving crop yield and quality. For alfalfa, different plant growth regulators exhibit varying effects in increasing seed yield. Some regulators can directly increase seed yield by promoting flower bud formation, increasing the number of inflorescences, or improving fruit setting efficiency; while other regulators may indirectly increase yield by improving plant nutritional status, enhancing stress resistance, or extending the growing season. In alfalfa seed production, excessive vegetative growth and lodging are common due to irrigation or rainfall. Controlling plant height with plant growth regulators is an effective measure to reduce lodging. However, current research has found that the effects of different plant growth regulators, such as paclobutrazol, chlormequat chloride, and anti-lodging esters, are not entirely consistent. Furthermore, the use of growth regulators that increase flowering and fruit setting rates is extremely limited in production. Therefore, making full use of growth regulators to increase alfalfa seed yield is crucial for optimizing alfalfa planting management and increasing economic benefits. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for increasing alfalfa seed yield using growth regulators.

[0005] This invention is implemented by the following technical solution: a method for increasing alfalfa seed yield using growth regulators, comprising the following steps: (1) selecting a seed field production area; (2) selecting a plot of land; (3) pre-sowing soil pretreatment; (4) sowing; (5) field management; (6) harvesting and drying; wherein step (5): uniformly spraying sodium nitrophenolate solution at a dosage of 200 L / hm during the budding stage. 2 The mass concentration of sodium nitrophenolate solution is 5.0–6.0 ppm.

[0006] Furthermore, the step (1) of selecting the seed field production area specifically includes: temperature conditions: not lower than 10℃, accumulated temperature above 1700℃, and frost-free period above 120 days; water conditions: annual precipitation not higher than 350 mm; when annual precipitation is lower than 280 mm, there are irrigation conditions; soil conditions: neutral or slightly alkaline loam, with a soil pH range of 7.0 < pH < 8.5.

[0007] Furthermore, in step (2), the selection of the plot is as follows: if there are other plants that naturally hybridize with alfalfa near the seed field, the seed field must maintain a spatial distance of more than 1000m from them; if the previous crop is another alfalfa variety, crop rotation is required to ensure that there is no alfalfa stubble in the field.

[0008] Furthermore, the soil pretreatment in step (3) specifically involves: removing weeds with a non-selective herbicide 10 days before sowing, and simultaneously clearing away debris; and applying 15,000 kg / hm² of well-rotted farmyard manure. 2 ~22500 kg / hm 2 Deep plowing, with a plowing depth of 30-35cm, followed by harrowing to make the surface flat, free of weeds and roots, and with a uniform and loose texture; and compaction; harrowing and compaction ensure that the soil layer is loose on top and firm underneath.

[0009] Furthermore, step (4) sowing specifically involves: autumn sowing, using a hill-planting machine with a wide-narrow row spacing of 110 cm and a narrow row spacing of 70 cm, with a plant spacing of 15 cm, ensuring that the alfalfa plant density in the seed field is 7.5 × 10⁻⁶. 4 Plant / hm 2 Seeding rate for hill sowing: 0.8 kg / hm² 2 ~1.0 kg / hm 2 Plant 2-3 seeds per hole; sow at a depth of 1-1.5 cm.

[0010] Furthermore, the hill-seeding machine includes a frame, wheels, a soil-covering plate, a feed pipe, a hopper, a hole opener, a hydraulic rod, a height sensor, and a feeding assembly; the hole opener is provided at the bottom of the frame, a hydraulic rod is fixedly connected to one side of the hole opener, the hole opener is fixed to the frame through the hydraulic rod, a height sensor is installed on the top of the frame near the hole opener, wheels are installed on both sides of the frame, and a soil-covering plate is fixedly connected to the rear of the frame;

[0011] A feed pipe is provided at the top of the frame, and the funnel is fixedly connected to the top of the feed pipe. A feeding assembly is provided between the feed pipe and the orifice opener. The feeding assembly includes two feeding rings, which are respectively located on both sides of the top of the frame. Multiple metering grooves are formed around the feeding rings and are evenly distributed around the axis of the feeding rings. The output end of the feed pipe slides against the outer ring wall of the feeding ring. During the rotation of the feeding ring, when the metering groove rotates to below the output end of the feed pipe, the metering groove communicates with the output end of the feed pipe. Multiple arc-shaped seats are provided on the inner ring wall of the feeding ring and are evenly distributed around the axis of the feeding ring. A support roller is fixedly connected to the outer arc wall of the arc seat. A connecting window is provided at the bottom of the inner cavity of the metering groove to facilitate the passage of the support roller. The end of the support roller away from the arc seat extends into the metering groove through the connecting window. A moving platform is fixedly connected to the end of the support roller inside the metering groove, and the moving platform is slidably connected to the inner wall of the metering groove.

[0012] Furthermore, the arc-shaped seat has assembly chambers on both sides, which are symmetrically distributed along the axis of the arc-shaped seat. The arc-shaped seat has connecting holes on both sides, which are connected to the assembly chambers. An arc-shaped rod is placed inside the assembly chamber, and the surface of the arc-shaped rod is slidably connected to the inner wall of the connecting hole.

[0013] The arc-shaped rod is fixedly connected to two limiting seats at both ends to prevent it from detaching from the assembly chamber. A positioning cylinder and a return spring are sequentially sleeved on one end of the arc-shaped rod inside the assembly chamber. One end of the return spring contacts the limiting seat, and the other end of the return spring is fixedly connected to one end of the positioning cylinder. The other end of the positioning cylinder is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the assembly chamber. Two adjacent limiting seats extending outside the assembly chamber are fixedly connected. A trigger seat is fixedly connected to the inner arc wall of the arc seat.

[0014] Furthermore, the trigger seat has an arc-shaped groove on the side near the center of the feeding ring. A drive roller is sleeved inside the feeding ring, and the drive roller coincides with the axis of the feeding ring. One end of the drive roller is fixedly connected to the output end of the drive motor built into the frame. Multiple Tai Chi plates are sleeved and fixedly connected to the surface of the drive roller. The multiple Tai Chi plates are evenly distributed around the axis of the drive roller. The side of the Tai Chi plate away from the drive roller contacts the inner wall of the arc-shaped groove. The Tai Chi plate is slidably connected to the bottom of the inner cavity of the arc-shaped groove. The Tai Chi plate itself is divided into a long axis end and a short axis end.

[0015] Furthermore, step (5) of field management also includes: weed control: weeding once when alfalfa seedlings are 8 cm to 10 cm tall; weeding again when they are 15 cm to 20 cm tall; for broadleaf weeds at the 2-4 leaf stage, imidazolium acetonitrile is used at a dosage of 50 mL / 667 m 2 ~60 mL / 667 m 2 For grassy weeds, use a herbicide like 30 mL / 667 m³. 2 ~45 mL / 667m 2 It also includes fertilization and irrigation: apply 150 kg / hm² of potassium dihydrogen phosphate as seed fertilizer at sowing. 2 ~225 kg / hm 2 In the second year after establishment, spray boron fertilizer at 15 kg / hm² from the budding stage to the initial flowering stage. 2 ~22.5 kg / hm 2 Irrigate once during the budding and flowering stages, with an irrigation volume of 150–225 m³. 3 / hm 2 .

[0016] Furthermore, the harvesting and drying in step (6) are as follows: seeds are not harvested in the year of planting; when 75% of the pods turn yellowish-brown, they are harvested; the seeds are naturally sun-dried or mechanically dried until the seed moisture content is below 12%.

[0017] Advantages of this invention:

[0018] (1) By using a wide-narrow row sowing method, the sowing density of alfalfa seed fields was strictly controlled, and the sowing density was controlled at 7.5 × 10⁻⁶. 4 Plant / hm 2 Both the actual and theoretical yields of the seeds were significantly higher than the actual yields at other sowing densities.

[0019] (2) The innovative combination of the best plant growth regulators effectively increases the seed yield of alfalfa.

[0020] (3) This invention is based on a dedicated alfalfa seed hole-planting machine, which achieves increased seed yield through precise control and dynamic adaptation. Before planting, the device is checked and adjusted, and the height sensor and metering components are calibrated to ensure that the drilling depth is accurately adjustable and the metering trough volume is sensitively adjustable. The drive motor drives the Tai Chi plate to rotate, which pushes the trigger seat through the long shaft end, causing the arc-shaped seat to expand outward. The support roller drives the moving platform to rise and compress the metering trough volume, accurately controlling the amount of seeds to be placed in a single hole. The height sensor monitors the terrain in real time and adjusts the hole punch in conjunction with the hydraulic rod to ensure that the sowing depth is consistent under different terrains, effectively improving the yield and quality of alfalfa seeds. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 A comparison chart of actual alfalfa seed yields under different planting densities;

[0023] Figure 2 A comparison chart of seed yield per alfalfa plant under different planting densities;

[0024] Figure 3 A comparison chart of theoretical alfalfa seed yields under different planting densities;

[0025] Figure 4 A comparison chart of theoretical alfalfa seed yields under different plant growth regulators;

[0026] Figure 5 A comparison chart of actual alfalfa seed yields under different plant growth regulators;

[0027] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the pod formation of alfalfa according to the method of Example 1 but without the application of sodium nitrophenolate;

[0028] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing the pod formation of alfalfa after applying sodium nitrophenolate according to the method in Example 1.

[0029] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of a seeder according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the bottom structure of a seeder according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the feeding assembly structure according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the feeding ring according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the exploded structure of multiple parts according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 13 This is a second-view structural diagram of multiple parts exploded according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 14This is a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the feeding ring according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0036] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the mobile stage and the arc-shaped base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 16 This is a schematic diagram of the assembly structure of the Tai Chi plate and the arc seat according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Figure 17 This is a schematic diagram of the explosion structure of multiple Tai Chi plates and drive rollers according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] In the picture:

[0040] 1. Frame; 101. Traveling wheel; 102. Covering board; 2. Mixing funnel; 201. Feed pipe; 202. Trencher; 203. Hydraulic rod; 204. Height sensor; 3. Feeding assembly; 301. Feeding ring; 302. Metering trough; 303. Arc-shaped seat; 304. Support roller; 305. Moving table; 306. Connecting window; 307. Assembly chamber; 308. Connecting hole; 309. Arc-shaped rod; 310. Limiting seat; 311. Return spring; 312. Positioning cylinder; 313. Trigger seat; 314. Arc-shaped groove; 315. Tai Chi plate; 316. Short shaft end; 317. Long shaft end; 318. Drive roller. Detailed Implementation

[0041] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0042] Example 1: A method for increasing alfalfa seed yield using growth regulators, comprising the following steps: (1) selecting a seed field production area; (2) selecting a plot of land; (3) pre-sowing soil pretreatment; (4) sowing; (5) field management; (6) harvesting and drying;

[0043] (1) Selecting seed production areas:

[0044] Temperature conditions: ≥10 ℃, accumulated temperature above 1700 ℃, frost-free period above 120 days per year;

[0045] Water conditions: Annual precipitation ≤350 mm; if it is less than 280 mm, irrigation conditions should be available;

[0046] Soil conditions: Neutral or slightly alkaline loam with a pH of 7.0 < pH < 8.5 is preferred.

[0047] (2) Selecting a plot of land:

[0048] Choose a plot of land that is open, well-ventilated, sunny, flat, with deep soil, moderate fertility, convenient for irrigation and drainage, and easy to isolate. If there are other plants near the seed field that can easily hybridize with alfalfa, the seed field should maintain a spatial distance of more than 1000 m from them; if the previous crop was another alfalfa variety, crop rotation is required to ensure that there are no alfalfa stubble in the field.

[0049] (3) Soil pretreatment before sowing:

[0050] Ten days before sowing, remove weeds with a non-selective herbicide (such as glyphosate) and clear away stones and other debris. Apply well-rotted farmyard manure at a rate of 15,000 kg / hm². 2 ~22500 kg / hm 2 Deep plowing, with a plowing depth of 30-35 cm, followed by harrowing to make the surface flat, free of weeds and roots, and with a uniform and loose texture; then compaction; harrowing and compaction ensure that the soil layer is loose on top and firm underneath.

[0051] (4) Sowing: Sowing is done in autumn, generally from late July to early August. A wide-narrow row system is used with a hill-sowing machine. The wide row spacing is 110 cm, the narrow row spacing is 70 cm, and the plant spacing is 15 cm, ensuring a plant density of 7.5 × 10⁻⁶ alfalfa plants in the seed field. 4 Plant / hm 2 Seeding rate: 0.8 kg / hm² for hill seeding. 2 ~1.0 kg / hm 2 Sow 2-3 seeds per hole. The sowing depth should be 1-1.5 cm, cover with shallow soil, and compact after sowing.

[0052] (5) Field management:

[0053] Application of growth regulators: Use 0.7% sodium nitrophenolate, prepare a 0.83 mL / L sodium nitrophenolate solution (mass concentration: 5.8 ppm). The dosage is 200 L / hm². 2 Spray evenly during the budding stage.

[0054] Weed control: Weed when alfalfa seedlings are 8-10 cm tall. For broadleaf weeds at the 2-4 leaf stage, apply imidacloprid (10% active ingredient) at a rate of 50 mL / 667 m². 2 ~60 mL / 667 m 2 For grass weeds, use 30 mL of glyphosate (108 g / L emulsifiable concentrate) per 667 m³. 2~45 mL / 667 m 2 When the plants reach a height of 15 cm to 20 cm, cultivate and weed once.

[0055] Fertilization and irrigation: Apply potassium dihydrogen phosphate at sowing time at 150 kg / hm². 2 ~225 kg / hm 2 In the second year after establishment, topdressing should be applied according to soil fertility conditions, with boron fertilizer sprayed at 15 kg / hm² from the budding stage to the initial flowering stage. 2 ~22.5 kg / hm 2 Irrigate once during the budding and flowering stages, with an irrigation volume of 150–225 m³. 3 / hm 2 .

[0056] (6) Harvesting and drying:

[0057] Do not harvest seeds in the first year of planting. Harvest when 75% of the pods have turned yellowish-brown. Allow seeds to air dry naturally until the moisture content is below 12%.

[0058] Seed moisture content refers to the percentage of water mass in a seed to the total seed mass. It is usually calculated by subtracting the mass of seeds after drying from the mass of seeds tested before drying, dividing by the mass of seeds tested before drying, and then multiplying by 100%.

[0059] The hill-planting seeder used in this embodiment includes a frame 1, wheels 101, a soil covering plate 102, a feed pipe 201, a funnel 2, a hole opener 202, a hydraulic rod 203, a height sensor 204, and a feeding assembly 3. A hole opener 202 is installed at the bottom of the frame 1, and a hydraulic rod 203 is fixedly connected to one side of the hole opener 202. The hole opener 202 is fixed to the frame 1 via the hydraulic rod 203. A height sensor 204 is installed on the top of the frame 1 near the hole opener 202. Wheels 101 are installed on both sides of the frame 1, and a soil covering plate 102 is fixedly connected to the rear of the frame 1. In this embodiment, the distance between the two hole openers 202 is 70 cm, and the drilling depth is controlled between 1 cm and 1.5 cm.

[0060] A feed pipe 201 is installed at the top of the frame 1, and a funnel 2 is fixedly connected to the top of the feed pipe 201. A feeding assembly 3 is installed between the feed pipe 201 and the orifice 202. The feeding assembly 3 includes two feeding rings 301, which are respectively located on both sides of the top of the frame 1. Multiple metering grooves 302 are formed around the feeding rings 301, and the multiple metering grooves 302 are evenly distributed around the axis of the feeding rings. The output end of the feed pipe 201 slides against the outer ring wall of the feeding ring 301. During the rotation of the feeding ring 301, when the metering groove 302 rotates to below the output end of the feed pipe 201, the metering groove 302 connects with the output end of the feed pipe 201, completing the feeding of the metering groove 302. By controlling the feeding... The rotational speed of the material ring 301 and the traveling speed of the hole seeder ensure that each metering trough 302 corresponds to a seeding hole when the material is discharged. The inner wall of the material discharging ring 301 is provided with multiple arc-shaped seats 303, which are evenly distributed around the axis of the material discharging ring 301. The outer arc wall of the arc seat 303 is fixedly connected to a support roller 304. The bottom of the inner cavity of the metering trough 302 is provided with a connecting window 306 to facilitate the passage of the support roller 304. The end of the support roller 304 away from the arc seat 303 extends into the metering trough 302 through the connecting window 306. The end of the support roller 304 inside the metering trough 302 is fixedly connected to a moving platform 305, which is slidably connected to the inner wall of the metering trough 302.

[0061] The arc-shaped base 303 has assembly chambers 307 on both sides, symmetrically distributed along the axis of the arc-shaped base 303. Connecting holes 308 are provided on both sides of the arc-shaped base 303, communicating with the assembly chambers 307. An arc-shaped rod 309 is housed within each assembly chamber 307, with its surface slidably connected to the inner wall of the connecting hole 308. Limiting seats 310 are fixedly connected to both ends of the arc-shaped rod 309 to prevent it from detaching from the assembly chamber 307. A positioning cylinder 312 and a return spring 311 are sequentially sleeved on one end of the rod 309 inside the assembly chamber 307. One end of the return spring 311 contacts the limiting seat 310, and the other end of the return spring 311 is fixedly connected to one end of the positioning cylinder 312. The other end of the positioning cylinder 312 is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the assembly chamber 307. Two adjacent limiting seats 310 extending outside the assembly chamber 307 are fixedly connected. A trigger seat 313 is fixedly connected to the inner arc wall of the arc-shaped seat 303.

[0062] The trigger seat 313 has an arc-shaped groove 314 on the side near the axis of the feeding ring 301. A drive roller 318 is sleeved inside the feeding ring 301. The drive roller 318 coincides with the axis of the feeding ring 301. One end of the drive roller 318 is fixedly connected to the output end of the built-in drive motor of the frame 1. Multiple Tai Chi plates 315 are sleeved and fixedly connected to the surface of the drive roller 318. The multiple Tai Chi plates 315 are evenly distributed around the axis of the drive roller 318. The side of the Tai Chi plate 315 away from the drive roller 318 contacts the inner wall of the arc-shaped groove 314. The Tai Chi plate 315 is slidably connected to the bottom of the inner cavity of the arc-shaped groove 314. The Tai Chi plate 315 itself is divided into a long axis end and a short axis end.

[0063] The frame 1 serves as the main support, with wheels 101 on both sides supporting its movement in the field. A funnel 2 at the top of the frame 1 is connected to a feeding ring 301 via a feed pipe 201 for seed storage and feeding. The feeding ring 301 is surrounded by metering troughs 302, responsible for quantitative seed output. The hole opener 202 is connected to the bottom of the frame 1 via a hydraulic rod 203. A height sensor 204, in conjunction with the control system, adjusts the depth of the sowing holes according to the terrain. A soil covering plate 102 at the rear of the frame 1 completes the soil covering operation after sowing. The control system includes a drive motor, a height sensor 204, and a hydraulic rod 203. The drive motor drives the core component in the feeding assembly 3, while the height sensor 204 monitors the terrain in real time and adjusts the height of the hole opener 202 in conjunction with the hydraulic rod 203.

[0064] Before planting alfalfa, all components of the alfalfa hill-seeder are inspected. The volume adjustment components of the metering trough 302 in the feeding assembly 3 are adjusted. The built-in drive motor of the frame 1 is started, and the smoothness of the rotation of the drive roller 318 and the polar plate 315 is observed. The interaction between the polar plate 315 and the trigger seat 313 is tested to ensure that the volume of the metering trough 302 can be flexibly adjusted according to requirements, guaranteeing accurate metering. In addition, the height sensor 204 is calibrated to accurately monitor changes in ground height and promptly feed the signal back to the control system, ensuring that the hydraulic rod 203 precisely adjusts the height of the furrow opener 202 based on the signal.

[0065] Alfalfa seeds are added to the funnel 2 at the top of the device, and then the feed pipe 201 is filled with seeds. When the discharge ring 301 rotates until the outlet of the feed pipe 201 connects with the metering trough 302, the seeds enter the corresponding metering trough 302. At this time, the metering trough 302, in its initial state, moves closer together under the action of the return spring 311, and the support roller 304 drives the moving platform 305 to the lowest point inside the metering trough 302, maximizing the volume of the metering trough 302 to accommodate more seeds and prepare for subsequent sowing. The volume of the metering trough 302 can be adjusted according to the number of seeds pre-placed in each sowing hole. In this embodiment, the maximum volume of the metering trough 302 is approximately 10 mm². 3To meet the requirement of 2-3 seeds per sowing hole in this embodiment, the volume of the metering trough 302 is adjusted to approximately 4 mm. 3 The specific method for adjusting the volume of metering tank 302 is as follows:

[0066] Initial state: The return spring 311 is in a compressed state, with one end connected to the arc-shaped rod 309 via the limiting seat 310, and the other end fixedly connected to the end of the positioning cylinder 312. The spring force drives multiple arc-shaped seats 303 to move closer to each other. The support roller 304 fixed to the outer arc wall of the arc-shaped seat 303 passes through the communicating window 306 at the bottom of the metering groove 302, driving the moving stage 305 to the lowest position inside the metering groove 302. At this time, the volume of the metering groove 302 is maximized, which can accommodate more seeds. The communicating holes 308 on both sides of the arc-shaped seat 303 are connected to the assembly chamber 307, providing a channel for the sliding of the arc-shaped rod 309 and ensuring that the arc-shaped seat 303 moves stably under the action of the spring force.

[0067] Trigger adjustment: After the drive motor starts, the drive roller 318 rotates and drives the Tai Chi plate 315, which is sleeved on the surface, to rotate synchronously. The Tai Chi plate 315 has an eccentric structure with a short shaft end 316 and a long shaft end 317. Initially, the short shaft end 316 contacts the bottom of the arc-shaped groove 314 of the trigger seat 313; as it rotates, the long shaft end 317 gradually contacts the bottom of the arc-shaped groove 314, generating an outward thrust on the trigger seat 313.

[0068] Volume compression: The trigger seat 313 is fixedly connected to the arc-shaped seat 303. The thrust drives the arc-shaped seat 303 to overcome the elastic force of the return spring 311 and move away from the drive roller 318. The support roller 304 on the outer arc wall of the arc-shaped seat 303 passes through the communicating window 306 at the bottom of the metering groove 302, pushing the moving stage 305 to slide upward along the inner wall of the metering groove 302, compressing the internal space and reducing the volume of the metering groove 302.

[0069] Quantitative control: By controlling the rotation angle of the drive motor, i.e., adjusting the rotation amplitude of the Tai Chi plate 315, the rising height of the moving platform 305 can be precisely adjusted, thereby controlling the volume of the metering tank 302. The smaller the volume, the fewer seeds are placed in a single hole; conversely, the larger the volume, the more seeds are placed.

[0070] To address the issue of uneven sowing hole depth caused by undulating ground in the field, the device establishes a closed-loop feedback system consisting of a height sensor 204, a control system, and a hydraulic rod 203. The height sensor 204 monitors the vertical distance between the bottom of the frame 1 and the ground in real time, converting the terrain undulation signal into an electrical signal and transmitting it to the control system. The control system calculates the required extension / retraction length of the hydraulic rod 203 based on the preset target sowing hole depth and sends instructions to the hydraulic rod 203. The hydraulic rod 203 adjusts the height of the hole opener 202 by extending or retracting. When the ground rises, the hydraulic rod 203 shortens, causing the hole opener 202 to move upward, preventing excessive deep tillage. When the ground lowers, the hydraulic rod 203 extends, causing the hole opener 202 to move downward, ensuring a stable hole depth.

[0071] I. Comparative Experiment on Alfalfa Seed Yield under Different Planting Densities

[0072] 1. Experimental Materials and Methods

[0073] 1.1 Natural Overview of the Experimental Area

[0074] The experimental site is located in Zhoujiadi Village, Aohan Banner, Chifeng City, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, at 42°44′ ~ 42°45′N, 119°54′ ~ 119°55′E. The average annual temperature is 4.9~5.7℃, the annual accumulated temperature is 2700~3200℃, the frost-free period is 130~150 days, the annual precipitation is 370~405mm, the annual evaporation is 2000~2600mm, and the sunshine duration is 2800~3000h. The soil in the experimental area is aeolian sandy soil, with fine particle size, loose structure, and low surface moisture content.

[0075] 1.2 Experimental Materials

[0076] The alfalfa seeds are Zhongcao No. 13 alfalfa, provided by the Grassland Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences;

[0077] Imidazolium acetonitrile (10% active ingredient) Source: Jiangsu Ruibang Agrochemical Co., Ltd.;

[0078] Source of caocin (108 g / L emulsifiable concentrate): Jiangsu Zhongqi Technology Co., Ltd.

[0079] 1.3 Experimental Design

[0080] Alfalfa was mechanically sown in late July 2022, and sampling and measurements were conducted in July and August 2023. Each experimental plot followed the method described in Example 1, except that no plant growth regulators were applied; row spacing, plant spacing, and sowing density were as per Table 1. All plots were wide-narrow row treatments, with three replicates per treatment, for a total of 18 plots. Each plot was 12m × 30m in size, with a 2m interval between plots.

[0081] Table 1: Field Plant and Row Spacing Design

[0082]

[0083] 1.4 Field Measurement Items and Methods

[0084] Actual yield: Select uniform areas for harvesting, with an area generally not less than 10 m². 2 After harvesting, the grains are dried, threshed, and cleaned to remove impurities.

[0085] Yield per unit area = Seed weight (kg) / Harvested area (hectares)

[0086] Total yield = Yield per unit area × Total planting area

[0087] Seed yield per plant: Randomly select a number of alfalfa plants (no less than 30 plants). Harvest, dry, thresh, and clean each sample plant separately.

[0088] Seed yield per plant = ∑ weight of seeds per plant / number of plants in the sample

[0089] Theoretical yield: Theoretical yield = number of plants per unit area × seed yield per plant

[0090] Effective branches: Randomly select a number of alfalfa plants (no fewer than 30). Observe and count the number of effective branches on each plant. Effective branches = ∑ number of effective branches per plant / number of sample plants.

[0091] Secondary reproductive branches: Randomly select a number of alfalfa plants (no fewer than 30 plants). Observe and count the number of secondary reproductive branches that branch off from the primary reproductive branches on each plant. Secondary reproductive branches = ∑ (number of secondary reproductive branches that branch off from the primary reproductive branches on each plant) / number of sample plants.

[0092] Number of inflorescences per branch: Randomly select a number of branches (no less than 30). Observe and count the number of inflorescences on each branch. Number of inflorescences per branch = ∑ number of inflorescences per branch / number of sample branches.

[0093] Cluster length: Randomly select a number of clusters (no fewer than 30). Measure the length of each cluster using calipers. Cluster length = ∑Length of each cluster / Number of clusters in the sample.

[0094] Number of pods per ear: Randomly select several ear of fruit (no less than 30). Observe and count the number of pods on each ear. Number of pods per ear = ∑ number of pods per ear / number of sample ear of fruit.

[0095] Number of seeds per ear: Randomly select several ears of fruit (no less than 30). Remove all seeds from each ear and count the number of seeds. Number of seeds per ear = ∑ number of seeds per ear / number of sample ears of fruit.

[0096] Seed weight per ear: Randomly select a number of ears (no less than 30). Weigh the seeds of each ear separately. Seed weight per ear = ∑ seed weight per ear / number of sample ears.

[0097] Number of curls per pod: Randomly select a number of pods (no less than 30). Observe and count the number of curls per pod. Number of curls per pod = ∑ number of curls per pod / number of pods in the sample.

[0098] Pod spiral diameter: Randomly select a number of pods (no fewer than 30). Measure the diameter of each pod spiral using calipers. Pod spiral diameter = ∑ (diameter of each pod spiral) / number of sample pods.

[0099] Seeds per pod: Randomly select a number of pods (no fewer than 30). Remove all seeds from each pod and count the number of seeds. Seeds per pod = ∑(Number of seeds per pod) / Number of pods in the sample.

[0100] Seed weight per pod: Randomly select a number of pods (no fewer than 30). Weigh the seeds of each pod separately. Seed weight per pod = ∑(seed weight of each pod) / number of pods in the sample.

[0101] Seed length: Randomly select a number of seeds (no fewer than 30). Measure the length of each seed using calipers. Seed length = ∑Length of each seed / Number of seeds in the sample.

[0102] Seed width: Randomly select a number of seeds (no fewer than 30). Measure the width of each seed using calipers. Seed width = ∑ width of each seed / number of seeds in the sample.

[0103] 2. Experimental Results and Analysis

[0104] (1) Alfalfa seed yield under different planting densities

[0105] Depend on Figure 1 It can be seen that the actual yield of alfalfa at different planting densities is in the order of D2 > D1 > D3 > D4 > D5 > D6; among them, the actual seed yield of planting at densities of D1 and D2 is significantly higher than that of other densities, which is 518.55 kg·hm². -2 589.65 kg·hm -2 . Figure 1 Different lowercase letters at the top of the bar chart indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0106] Depend on Figure 2It can be seen that the order of seed yield per plant for alfalfa planted at different densities is D2 > D3 > D4 > D5 > D6 > D1; among them, the seed yield per plant of D2 and D3 densities is significantly higher than that of other densities, at 10.39 g and 9.60 g, respectively. Figure 2 Different lowercase letters at the top of the bar chart indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0107] Depend on Figure 3 It can be seen that the seed yield per plant of alfalfa planted at different densities is in the following order: D2 > D1 > D3 > D4 > D5 > D6; among them, the theoretical seed yield of planting densities D1 and D2 is significantly higher than that of other densities, at 703.5 kg / hm². 2 780 kg / hm 2 . Figure 3 Different lowercase letters at the top of the bar chart indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0108] The results above show that as planting density gradually decreases, actual yield, seed yield per plant, and theoretical yield reach their highest values ​​at density D2, and then gradually decrease. Alfalfa exhibits the best actual yield, seed yield per plant, and theoretical yield when planted at density D2. Although the actual yield at density D1 is significantly higher than at other densities except D2, the yield per plant is the lowest. From an economic perspective, D2 is the most suitable planting density.

[0109] (2) Analysis of seed yield components at different planting densities

[0110] Analysis of variance was performed on the seed yield components of different planting treatments. Table 2 shows that the seed weight per ear in treatment D2 was the highest among all treatments at 0.0584 g. Treatment D3 had the highest number of effective branches, secondary reproductive branches, pods per ear, and seeds per ear, at 69.60, 306.80, 7.914, and 22.87, respectively. Treatment D4 had the highest number of inflorescences per branch and seed length, at 21.28 and 2.414, respectively, with the number of inflorescences per branch being significantly higher than in treatment D2 and other treatments. Treatment D5 had a significantly higher ear length (13.18 mm) and a higher number of curled pods per pod (1.89). The D6 treatment had the highest pod spiral diameter, number of seeds per pod, seed weight per pod, and seed width among all treatments, at 5.09 mm, 4.33 g, 0.01078 g, 2.414 mm, and 1.428 mm, respectively, with the seed weight per pod being significantly higher than other treatments.

[0111] Table 2: Components of alfalfa seed yield under different planting densities

[0112]

[0113] Note: Different lowercase letters in the same line indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0114] (3) Conclusion

[0115] With 7.5 × 10 4 Plant / hm 2 Planting alfalfa with row spacing of 110 cm / 70 cm and row spacing of 15 cm yields the highest actual yield and yield per plant. Reducing density significantly increases spike length, number of pods per spike, number of curls per pod, pod spiral diameter, seed weight per pod, and seed length, while having a limited impact on effective branches, secondary reproductive branches, number of inflorescences per branch, number of seeds per spike, number of seeds per pod, and seed width.

[0116] II. Comparative Experiment on the Effects of Different Plant Growth Regulators on Alfalfa Seed Yield

[0117] 1. Experimental Materials and Methods

[0118] 1.1 Natural Overview of the Experimental Area

[0119] The experimental site is located at the Sharqin Key Field Scientific Observation and Experiment Station for Pasture Resources, approximately 30 km southwest of Hohhot City, in Sharqin Township, Tumd Left Banner (111°45′ E, 40°36′ N, altitude 1063.2 m). The average annual temperature is 5.6 ℃, and the average annual precipitation is around 400 mm, classifying it as a semi-arid continental climate. The soil is sandy loam, with a total nitrogen content of 1.38 g / kg, a total phosphorus content of 0.61 g / kg, a total potassium content of 13.61 g / kg, a pH value of 6.2-7.0, and a water-soluble salt content of 0.48 g / kg; it is not a saline-alkali soil.

[0120] 1.2 Test Materials

[0121] The alfalfa seeds are Zhongcao No. 13 alfalfa, provided by the Grassland Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences;

[0122] Imidazolium nicotinic acid (10% active ingredient): Purchased from Jiangsu Ruibang Agrochemical Co., Ltd.

[0123] Source of caysine (108 g / L emulsifiable concentrate): purchased from Jiangsu Zhongqi Technology Co., Ltd.;

[0124] The source of 0.7% sodium nitrophenolate: purchased from Shandong Luobang Biological Pesticide Co., Ltd.;

[0125] Source of 2% benzylaminopurine: Purchased from Zhengzhou Xianlida Chemical Co., Ltd.;

[0126] The source of 5% calcium cyclohexane: purchased from Hebi Quanfeng Technology Co., Ltd.;

[0127] The source of 10% mepiquat chloride: purchased from Sichuan Runer Technology Co., Ltd.;

[0128] 50% of the chlormequat chloride was purchased from Sichuan Runer Technology Co., Ltd.

[0129] The 25% paclobutrazol was purchased from Chongqing Yier Shuangfeng Technology Co., Ltd.

[0130] 1.3 Experimental Design

[0131] Alfalfa was sown in early August 2023, and sampling and measurement were carried out in July and August 2024.

[0132] Plant growth regulators: 2% benzylaminopurine (A1), 0.7% sodium nitrophenolate (A2), 5% calcium cyclohexane (B1), 10% mepiquat chloride (B2), 50% chlormequat chloride (B3), 25% paclobutrazol (B4).

[0133] A single-factor randomized block design was used, with a total of 13 treatments: control (CK): distilled water; single application: A1, A2, B1, B2, B3, B4; combined application: A1B1, A1B2, A1B3, A2B1, A2B2, A2B4. Each treatment had three replicates, for a total of 39 plots, each plot measuring 5.8m × 4.4m. The application time and dosage for each treatment are shown in Table 3. Other experimental methods were the same as those in Example 1.

[0134] Table 3: Main effects and application time of different plant growth regulators

[0135]

[0136] 1.4 Field Measurement Items and Methods

[0137] The field measurement items and methods are the same as those in Section 1.4 of the “Comparative Experiment on Seed Yield of Alfalfa under Different Planting Densities”.

[0138] 2. Experimental Results and Analysis

[0139] (1) Alfalfa seed yield under different growth regulators

[0140] Theoretical yield variance analysis shows that, as Figure 4Among all treatments, only group A2 had a significantly higher yield than group CK (P < 0.05). Group A2 had the highest yield (57.74 kg / mu), significantly higher than groups CK, B1, B2, B3, B4, A1B1, A1B3, A2B1, and A2B4 (P < 0.05). Field photos of the experimental plots for groups CK and A2 on August 1, 2024, are available in [link to photos]. Figure 6 , Figure 7 It can be seen that the number of inflorescences and seed yield of the A2 group were significantly increased compared with the CK group. The B1 group had the lowest yield (17.06 kg / mu), which was not significantly different from the CK group. Figure 4 Different lowercase letters at the top of the bar chart indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0141] Actual seed yield results show that, Figure 5 The actual seed yields of groups A2, B2, A1B3 and A2B2 were significantly higher than those of group CK (P < 0.05), and the actual seed yield of group A2 was significantly higher than that of group A2B1. Figure 5 Different lowercase letters at the top of the bar chart indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0142] (2) Analysis of seed yield components of different plant growth regulators

[0143] The components of alfalfa seed yield with different plant growth regulators are shown in Tables 4 and 5. The number of seeds per pod in groups A2 and B3 was significantly higher than that in group CK (P < 0.05), and the number of curled pods in group B3 was significantly higher than that in group CK (P < 0.05). The number of seeds per ear in groups B2, B4, and A1B1 was significantly lower than that in group CK (P < 0.05), while the number of inflorescences per branch in groups A2 and B4 was significantly higher than that in group CK (P < 0.05). The number of seeds per gram in groups A1, B1, B2, B3, B4, and A2B4 was significantly lower than that in group CK (P < 0.05). The seed length in group A2B4 was significantly longer than that in group CK (P < 0.05). The ear length in groups A1B3 and A2B2 was significantly longer than that in group CK (P < 0.05), and the spiral diameter in group A1B3 was significantly higher than that in group CK (P < 0.05). The ear seed weight in group A2 was significantly higher than that in group CK. The seed weight of pods in groups A1, A2, B1, and B3 was significantly higher than that in the control group (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in seed weight per plant between the control group and the control group, but A2 was significantly higher than B1, B2, B3, and A2B1 (P < 0.05). The thousand-seed weight of A1, B1, and B4 was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the number of pods per ear, reproductive branches, and seed width among the control groups.

[0144] Table 4: Factors influencing alfalfa seed yield under different plant growth regulators (single agent)

[0145]

[0146] Note: Different lowercase letters in the same line indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0147] Table 5: Factors influencing alfalfa seed yield under different plant growth regulators (compound agents)

[0148]

[0149] Note: Different lowercase letters in the same line indicate significant differences between treatments (P<0.05).

[0150] (3) Conclusion

[0151] Spraying with 5.8 ppm sodium nitrophenolate, a plant growth regulator, during the budding stage significantly increased both the actual and theoretical yield of alfalfa seeds compared to other plant growth regulators. This plant growth regulator significantly increased alfalfa seed yield by substantially increasing the number of inflorescences per branch, the number of seeds in pods, the weight of seeds in pods, and the weight of seeds in ears.

[0152] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A hill-planting seeder, characterized in that, The machine includes a frame, wheels, a soil covering plate, a feed pipe, a funnel, a hole opener, a hydraulic rod, a height sensor, and a feeding assembly. The hole opener is located at the bottom of the frame, and a hydraulic rod is fixedly connected to one side of the hole opener. The hole opener is fixed to the frame via the hydraulic rod. A height sensor is installed on the top of the frame near the hole opener. Wheels are installed on both sides of the frame, and a soil covering plate is fixedly connected to the rear of the frame. A feed pipe is provided at the top of the frame, and the funnel is fixedly connected to the top of the feed pipe. A feeding assembly is provided between the feed pipe and the hole opener. The feeding assembly includes two feeding rings, which are respectively located on both sides of the top of the frame. Multiple metering grooves are formed around the feeding rings and are evenly distributed around the axis of the feeding rings. The output end of the feed pipe slides against the outer ring wall of the feeding ring. During the rotation of the feeding ring, when the metering grooves rotate to below the output end of the feed pipe, the metering grooves communicate with the output end of the feed pipe. Multiple arc-shaped seats are provided on the inner ring wall of the feeding ring and are evenly distributed around the axis of the feeding ring. A support roller is fixedly connected to the outer arc wall of the arc seat. A connecting window is provided at the bottom of the inner cavity of the metering groove to facilitate the passage of the support roller. The end of the support roller away from the arc seat extends into the metering groove through the connecting window. A moving platform is fixedly connected to the end of the support roller inside the metering groove, and the moving platform is slidably connected to the inner wall of the metering groove. The arc-shaped seat has assembly chambers on both sides, which are symmetrically distributed along the axis of the arc-shaped seat. The arc-shaped seat has connecting holes on both sides, which are connected to the assembly chambers. An arc-shaped rod is placed inside the assembly chamber, and the surface of the arc-shaped rod is slidably connected to the inner wall of the connecting hole. The arc-shaped rod has fixed limiting seats at both ends to prevent it from detaching from the assembly chamber. A positioning cylinder and a return spring are sequentially sleeved on one end of the arc-shaped rod inside the assembly chamber. One end of the return spring contacts the limiting seat, and the other end of the return spring is fixedly connected to one end of the positioning cylinder. The other end of the positioning cylinder is fixedly connected to the inner wall of the assembly chamber. Two adjacent limiting seats extending outside the assembly chamber are fixedly connected. A trigger seat is fixedly connected to the inner arc wall of the arc seat. The trigger seat has an arc-shaped groove on the side near the axis of the feeding ring. A drive roller is sleeved inside the feeding ring. The drive roller coincides with the axis of the feeding ring. One end of the drive roller is fixedly connected to the output end of the drive motor built into the frame. Multiple Tai Chi plates are sleeved and fixedly connected to the surface of the drive roller. The multiple Tai Chi plates are evenly distributed around the axis of the drive roller. The side of the Tai Chi plate away from the drive roller contacts the inner wall of the arc-shaped groove. The Tai Chi plate is slidably connected to the bottom of the inner cavity of the arc-shaped groove. The Tai Chi plate itself is divided into a long axis end and a short axis end.

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