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Alfalfa , also known as lucerne , is a highly alimental forage crop widely civilise for hay output . Itshigh protein contentandpalatability makeit anideal feedfor livestock , especially dairy farm oxen and horses . If you ’re reckon to acquire alfalfa for hay , this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential knowledge and proficiency to secure a successful harvest .
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Alfalfa boom in well - drained , fertile soilswith a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 . Avoid expanse with hapless drain or excessive acidity . Prepare the soil bydeep plowingand remove any weeds or debris . remediate the dirt with organic issue , such as manure or compost , toimprove fertilityand body of water retention .
Variety Selection
Choose analfalfa varietythat is adapted to your climate andsoil status . debate factors such as disease resistance , yield electric potential , and winter hardiness . Some popular miscellany let in :
Seeding
Sow lucerne seeds in the outpouring or accrue whensoil temperaturesare between 55 ° F and 70 ° F . Use aseed drillto plant life the seeds at a astuteness of 1/4 to 1/2 in . The seeding rate should be approximately 15 to 20 pound per acre .
Irrigation
Alfalfa requires regular irrigation , especially during live , ironical periods . H2O theplants deeplyand infrequently , allowing the soil to dry out between waterings . forfend overwatering , as this can lead to root rot .
Fertilization
Fertilize lucerne according tosoil test results . by and large , apply 50 to 100 pounds of nitrogen per acre after each cut . Also , utilise phosphorusand potassium as require .
Pest and Disease Management
Alfalfa is susceptible to several pests and diseases , let in aphids , leafhoppers , androot guff . supervise your craw regularly and take appropriatecontrol measuresif necessary . Organic pest control methods , such as companion planting and biological control , can be effective in thin out plague populations .
Harvesting
Alfalfa istypically harvestedthree to five times per time of year , depending on the climate andgrowing conditions . The optimal clip to harvest is when the plants are in the early to mid - bloom stage . Cut the alfalfa at a tallness of 2 to 3 inches above the ground .
Curing and Storage
After harvesting , take into account the alfalfa to cure in the field for several days . Turn thehay periodicallyto assure even drying . Once the hay is dry , bale it and store it in a wry , well - ventilated country .
Final Thoughts
Growing alfalfa for hay requires measured planning and attention to item . By follow thetechniques outlinedin this usher , you could instal aproductive alfalfa standthat will provide high-pitched - quality hay for your livestock . Remember to confer with withlocal agricultural expertsfor specific recommendations based on your part and condition .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : What is the best time to engraft alfalfa?A : Alfalfa istypically plantedin the saltation or fall whensoil temperaturesare between 55 ° F and 70 ° F.Q : How often should I irrigate alfalfa?A : Irrigate alfalfa deeplyand infrequently , set aside the soil to dry out between waterings . obviate overwatering . Q : What is theoptimum timeto crop alfalfa?A : Harvest alfalfawhen the plant are in the former to mid - bloom stage . Q : How do I store lucerne hay properly?A : Bale lucerne hayand store it in a ironical , well - ventilated expanse . Q : What are somecommon pestsand disease of alfalfa?A : vernacular pestsand diseases ofalfalfa include aphids , leafhoppers , and root rot .
