Characterization and pre‐breeding of diverse alfalfa wild relatives originating from drought‐stressed environments

Changing climates and associated increased variability pose risks to alfalfa ( Medicago sativa L.) cultivation, with the requirement to establish, survive, and maintain production under water stress. Crop wild relatives (CWR) of alfalfa include populations that have evolved to survive in a number of different, extreme environments, but until recently have had limited use in breeding programs. Here we report on the phenotypic diversity of alfalfa...