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Spring Alfalfa Planting
4/8/2003
Ron F. Meyer
Area Extension Agent
(Agronomy)
Colorado State University Extension
Golden Plains
Area |
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Alfalfa planting should begin near early May. 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 1/4-1/2 inches, and 1/2-3/4 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
seedling 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. Potash is needed on sandy soils
only.
Source: Allan Brax |
Page Created and Maintained by: Perry D. Brewer, Area
Extension Agent (Technology Education/Youth)
4/8/2003 |
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