Quick Overview
Alfalfa , have it off as the “ poove of Forages , ” is a nutrient - racy legume that has been domesticate for century for its particular nutritional value and versatility . Growing organic Medicago sativa can be a rewarding experience , provide you with a bountiful harvesting of this superfood . Thiscomprehensive guidewill outfit you with the knowledge and technique necessary tosuccessfully uprise constituent alfalfain your garden or on a gravid ordered series .
Choosing the Right Location
Alfalfa thrives in well - drained , fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 . ward off areas withpoor drainageor heavy clay soils . The land site shouldreceive sizable sun , at least six hours per mean solar day .
Preparing the Soil
Before institute , it ’s of the essence to set the stain toensure optimal growth . begin by conducting asoil testto find out the pH and nutrient levels . Amend the soil as needed with organic matter , such as compost or manure , to improve birth rate and drain . If the pH is too grim , total agrarian limeto elevate it .
Selecting and Planting Seeds
Choose endorse organic alfalfa seeds from reputable suppliers . Plant theseeds shallowly , about 1/4 inch abstruse , inrows spaced18 to 24 inch apart . piddle the seeds thoroughly after institute .
Watering and Fertilizing
Alfalfa has a relatively abstruse root organization , earmark it totolerate drought conditionsonce establish . However , regular lacrimation during the growing time of year is indispensable foroptimal growth . fertilise alfalfa with a balanced organic fertilizer once or doubly during the growing season , succeed the manufacturer ’s instructions .
Weed and Pest Management
Keep the lucerne field of force free of pot by regularly mowing or usingorganic herbicides . Alfalfa is relatively plague - resistant , but aphids and leafhoppers can occasionally be a problem . Control pests usingorganic method , such asintroducing beneficial insectsor using insecticidal grievous bodily harm .
Harvesting
Alfalfa can beharvested multiple timesduring thegrowing time of year . The firstharvest typically occurs60 to 70 days after planting . sheer the lucerne at a height of 2 to 3 inch above the ground . appropriate the alfalfa to dry out in the field for several daytime before bale or storing .
Storing Alfalfa
Store organic alfalfa in a cool , ironical place to preserve its nutritional value . bale alfalfa can be stored in a barn or shed , whileloose alfalfacan be stored in airtight containers .
Benefits of Growing Organic Alfalfa
FAQ
1 . Can Igrow alfalfain containers?Yes , lucerne can be grown in container , but itrequires ample spaceand drainage.2 . How often should I water alfalfa?Water alfalfa regularly , especially during hot , dry weather.3 . How long does it take lucerne to grow?Alfalfa can be harvested 60 to 70 days after planting.4 . Can Ifeed constitutive alfalfato my pets?Yes , organic alfalfais anutritious treatfor pets , but it should be given in moderation.5 . What are thecommon pestsand diseases that touch on alfalfa?Aphids , leafhopper , androot rotarecommon pestsand diseases that can feign alfalfa.6 . How do Iprevent weedsfrom growing in my lucerne field?Regular mowing or using constituent herbicides can helpcontrol weedsin alfalfa fields.7 . Can Igrow constituent alfalfain all climates?Alfalfa can be acquire in mosttemperate climate , but itprefers warm , teetotal conditions.8 . How can I improve the nutritionary value of my alfalfa?Fertilizing with abalanced organic fertilizercan enhance thenutritional contentof alfalfa.9 . What are the unlike uses of alfalfa?Alfalfa can be used aslivestock feed , hay , supplements , and in enhancive products.10 . How long can I store organic alfalfa?Organic alfalfa can be stored for several months in a cool , juiceless place .
