Alfalfa Medicago sativa

Alfalfa is a deep-rooted legume primarily used for forage and wildlife. Its high digestibility, feed value and ability to be stored make it ideal for hay and silage. Some varieties are also able to be used in a managed grazing system.

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Species Summary

Description

Considered to be the world’s most valuable legume, alfalfa is commonly used for beef and dairy. Its high digestibility and feed value and ability to be stored make it ideal for hay and silage. Some varieties are also able to be used in a managed grazing system.

Strengths

High yields; good seedling vigor; deep roots; good summer growth; excellent drought tolerance; good persistence under mechanical harvesting; excellent forage quality and palatability.

Limitations

Requires deep, well-drained soils, high pH and high fertility; prone to alfalfa weevil and potato leafhopper damage; can cause bloat when grazed

Coat for Optimal Performance

In order to achieve optimal nitrogen fixation ability, Alfalfa needs to be properly inoculated. Developed from over 30 years of research, our Multi-Strain™ technology for alfalfas is an exclusive blend of four rhizobium strains. Nitro-Coat's® four-strain rhizobium is an added insurance policy. Multi-Strain™ is available only with our Nitro-Coat® coating.