Alfalfa Food Plot Facts
Medicago sativa
Example Varieties: Alfagraze, Amerigraze,
Bulldog 505, Bulldog 805, 403T and 702.
Fertilization: A soil test
should be obtained prior to planting. Lime to obtain target
6.7 pH or higher. Very sensitive to soil acidity.
Nitrogen is normally not applied as Alfalfa produces its own when
properly inoculated.
Use: For quality Hay production; Food Plot for
Deer, Turkey and Rabbits
Management: Alfalfa is a high
management crop requiring monitoring for weevils (alfalfa weevil).
Control insects and nematodes with chemicals or preferably organically. Be aware of risk
of crown and stem rot. Your extension agent can advise on
chemicals approved for your state or alternative organic solutions.
Adaptation: Best on fertile, well
drained soils. Deep / Rich soil types work best. Needs
pH of +6.5 to grow properly. Not for use on sandy / well
drained soils. Irrigation used in many locations.
Preparation: Best on tilled land broken early and allowed to
fallow until planting time. Soil should be packed after
seeding for best results or use a culti-packer for planting.
Planting Alfalfa Seed
Plant 15-25 lbs / acre
Inoculate with Alfalfa
Inoculants prior to planting (If seed is not Already inoculated)
Plant 1/4" Deep - Seed can be rolled into soil.
Alfalfa Seed Planting Dates
Average - AUG-SEPT
View Planting Zone map for more specific info.
Planting Dates For Alfalfa & USA Zone Map
|
Zone 1 |
Zone 2 |
Zone 3 |
Zone 4 |
Zone 5 |
|
OCT-DEC |
SEPT-OCT |
AUG-SEPT |
AUG-SEPT |
SEPT-OCT |
More information on Alfalfa can be found at the following sites
Alfalfa
& Other Forage Crops (OMAFRA)
Aphanomyces Root Rot In Alfalfa
Verticillium Wilt In Alfalfa
| Wildlifeseeds.com - An Informational Site From Seedland.com |
