Long-term Alfalfa Productivity

In the Midwest most producers will plant oats in the spring and then harvest them in the summer then seed the field in alfalfa and something else such as wheat  in the fall. This process takes some time but if it is done right, the quality of hay you will be gaining in the years to come can be very beneficial to the producer. According to Karla Hernandez, a SDSU Extension Agent, in order to achieve a profitable, long-term stand of alfalfa a producer must choose the proper field, check the soil fertility, seedbed preparation, seeding dates, seeding depth, and seeding with or without a companion crop.

I believe Karla brings up many good points to lead to the success of an alfalfa field and would like to expand on each of those. 

• Choosing the proper field involves checking your field for low spots to insure that water can runoff otherwise the water may stand on the alfalfa and kill it just like any other crop.
•  Checking the soil fertility by going out and gathering soil samples and comparing them to what an alfalfa field needs and see what nutrients or fertilizer you might need to put on to enhance the field. I know we always try to at least meet the recommendations for the field and most of the time this means applying some lime and a little fertilizer down the road.
• Seedbed preparation involves having a firm seedbed to allow germination of the alfalfa. You don't want it worked up to fine otherwise any moisture you get could cut ditches through the alfalfa field and cause the planter to plant too deep.
• Seeding dates depend on where you are located because up north states like South Dakota may seed around May while in Missouri we don't normally seed until August. Choosing the best time for your area may also depend on the amount of moisture you may be getting to ensure the alfalfa will come up.
• Most of the time alfalfa is seeded at 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep with a rate of 20-25 lbs to the acre. The seed can also be broadcast on your field.
• Seeding with and without a companion crop such as wheat, oats, or rye can both have its benefits. The benefits with includes better control of weeds and helps keep the soil from erosion. The benefits without is when the alfalfa is harvested it will be pure alfalfa and high quality.

Overall I believe alfalfa can provide producers with high quality hay to feed their beef cattle at a cheaper price than corn or other alternative feed choices. The crude protein in alfalfa can be as high as what it is in corn and gluten so feeding this to your calves can be a cheaper way to give them the protein the need in order to grow.