Some Information on Planting Alfalfa or Growing Alfalfa

This article briefly discusses some important points regarding planting alfalfa or growing alfalfa.

Alfalfa is a perennial legume and, depending on the species and climate, is known to have a lifespan ranging from three to twelve years.

Alfalfa is easily recognizable by its remarkable physical resemblance to clover and the fact it is grown in clusters of small purple flowers.

Typically, the alfalfa plant grows to a height of up to 1 metre (3 ft), and has a deep root system sometimes stretching to 4.5 metres (15 ft). This makes it very resilient, especially to droughts.

Also, the deep roots are able to draw precious mineral elements deep from the bowels of the earth, and add to its nutritive and medicinal attributes.

Alfalfa is grown as a cultivated crop across the world, mainly as forage for animals. Most notable is the fact that the plant exhibits auto-toxicity, i.e. it is difficult for alfalfa seeds to grow in existing planting grounds of alfalfa.

Therefore, when planting alfalfa, it becomes imperative that alfalfa fields be rotated with other crops like corn, wheat, etc, prior to a second or subsequent reseeding of alfalfa.

Alfalfa is generally sown in two cycles, in spring or fall, and thrives best in well-drained soil.

Particularly important for alfalfa growing, the pH of the soil should be checked - alfalfa grows best in neutral pH soil of approximately 7.

Alfalfa is harvested round the year, and yields depend on climate, soil conditions and maturity of the plant at the time of harvesting.

Late cutting allows for more nutrient value in the plant.

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