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When Should I Plant Alfalfa?
3/15/2006
Ron F. Meyer
Area Extension Agent
(Agronomy)
Colorado State University Extension
Golden Plains
Area |
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The best time for alfalfa planting is in the spring. The
following comments are some key considerations for successful stand
establishment.
Field preparation: The ideal seedbed should be a
smooth, firm, clod-free soil for optimum seed placement with drills or
cultipacker seeders. Since alfalfa is a small seeded crop, it is
important that it be planted according to soil type. Optimum seeding
depths for medium to heavy textured soils ¼ - ½ inches, and
½ - ¾ inches on sandy soils.
Advantages for using a nurse
crop, such as oats, include erosion control and weed control.
Disadvantages include increased competition with the seeding alfalfa for both
moisture and nutrients, as well as lower quality and yield of first-year
alfalfa. If seeding oats as cover, seed at light rate or (30-35 lbs. per
acre) and preferably eliminate them with a postemergence herbicide after
alfalfa is established. This will prevent the oat crop from
over-competing the alfalfa.
Use high quality alfalfa seed with fresh
inoculant. Alfalfa seed germination should be 85% or higher.
Planting rates of between 12 and 18 pounds per acre are recommended.
Choose alfalfa varieties based on test plot information. Apply
phosphorous fertilizer before planting and incorporate for best results.
Postash is needed on sandy soils only.
Source: Allan
Brax |
Page Created and Maintained by: Perry D. Brewer, Area
Extension Agent (Technology Education/Youth)
3/15/2006 |
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