How to Propagate Alfalfa Plants the Right Way

Alfalfa, also known as lucerne, is a versatile forage crop that can provide nutritious feed for livestock as well as environmental benefits when used as a cover crop. Propagating alfalfa properly is key to establishing a productive stand that will last for multiple years. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the best practices for propagating alfalfa plants successfully.

Choosing the Right Alfalfa Variety

Selecting an alfalfa variety suited for your climate and intended use is the first step for proper propagation, Some key factors to consider when choosing a variety include

• Fall dormancy class – Select a fall dormancy rating that matches your climate. Lower ratings like 2-4 are better suited for warmer regions while higher ratings like 7-9 work well in colder areas.

• Pest resistance – Look for varieties with resistance to diseases like anthracnose and insects like aphids if these are problematic in your area.

• Intended use – For grazing, choose varieties with good regrowth potential For hay/silage, look for high yield and forage quality traits.

• Winterhardiness – In colder climates, pick winter hardy varieties that can survive frigid temps and heaving.

Consult with local agronomists to find the best alfalfa varieties for your specific conditions. Reputable seed dealers can also provide variety recommendations.

Soil Preparation

As a crop that will be in place for 3-5 years or longer, properly preparing the soil prior to seeding alfalfa is time well spent. Key steps include:

• pH adjustment – Test soil pH and add lime if needed to raise to 6.5-7.0 for optimal nutrient availability.

• Fertility – Take soil samples and apply any required phosphorus, potassium and sulfur based on test results.

• Tillage – Eliminate weeds and create a fine, firm seedbed via conventional tillage methods.

• Bed preparation – For ridge or bed planting, shape beds and pack them prior to seeding.

Addressing soil pH, nutrients, texture and drainage ahead of time prevents issues down the road and gets plants off to a strong start.

Seeding Methods and Rates

Once soils are prepped, it’s time to get the alfalfa seeds in the ground. Here are some key seeding guidelines:

• Method – Drill seeding is preferred for uniform depth and good seed-soil contact. Broadcasting requires a higher seeding rate.

• Timing – Early spring when soil temperatures reach 45-50°F allows for rapid emergence before weeds become competitive.

• Rate – For pure alfalfa stands, sow 15-20 lbs per acre. Increase rate by 10% if broadcast seeding. Reduce rate appropriately for alfalfa/grass mixtures.

• Depth – 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep is optimal. Shallow planting risks poor emergence while deep risks issues breaking through soil surface.

• Inoculation – Use proper rhizobial inoculant on seeds to promote nodulation for nitrogen fixation.

Follow seed tag guidelines for specific variety seeding rates. Higher rates help compete against weeds in new seedings.

Weed Control

Controlling weeds is especially critical during new alfalfa establishment when plants are vulnerable. Weed management options include:

• Cultivation – Shallow tillage between rows can control early emerging weeds if soil moisture is adequate.

• Mowing – Timely clipping can prevent weeds from shading out seedling alfalfa plants.

• Herbicides – Pre-emergence herbicides help control early weeds. Post-emergence options can also be used.

• Mulch – Applying straw mulch at seeding acts as a physical barrier to suppress weeds.

An integrated approach using two or more methods provides the best weed control and increases the odds for a successful alfalfa stand.

Providing Ideal Growing Conditions

Once seeded, there are a few key things you can do to give alfalfa the growing conditions it needs to become well established:

• Moisture – Ensure consistent moisture, especially shortly after germination. Alfalfa has a shallow root system initially and dries out quickly.

• Fertility – Apply supplemental nitrogen fertilizer when establishing alfalfa without a cover crop. This aids initial growth until nitrogen fixation kicks in.

• Pests – Scout for early pests like potato leafhoppers and spray if populations exceed thresholds.

• Harvest timing – Delay harvest until plants are ≥10% bloom in the seeding year to allow sufficient root reserves.

Meeting moisture, fertility and pest management needs minimizes plant stress and accelerated growth.

Overseeding and Interseeding

Two techniques that can help thicken up thinning alfalfa stands are overseeding and interseeding:

• Overseeding – Broadcast alfalfa seed over established stands after cutting or grazing to fill in bare spots. A chain harrow or drag helps cover seed.

• Interseeding – Drill new alfalfa seed directly into existing stands. Best done in fall when alfalfa is dormant or in spring before growth takes off.

Both methods allow you to bolster stand density and productivity without the full cost of reestablishment. Overseeding is quicker while interseeding offers more precision.

Propagating Alfalfa from Cuttings

In addition to seed propagation, alfalfa can also be propagated from cuttings:

• Cutting selection – Take 6-8 inch cuttings from vigorous, disease-free plants. Need a node or two for new shoots.

• Rooting aids – Dip cut end in rooting hormone to spur root growth. Some also use honey.

• Planting – Insert cuttings 2-4 inches deep in sterile potting mix, spacing 1-2 inches apart.

• Care – Keep soil evenly moist and cuttings out of direct sun until new shoots emerge. Harden off before transplanting.

This method is useful for propagating specific alfalfa varieties with desirable traits. However, plants started from cuttings may be less hardy than those grown from seed.

Common Propagation Pitfalls to Avoid

While alfalfa propagation is relatively straightforward, these common mistakes can set your plants back:

• Planting too early when soils are still cold and wet.

• Seeding too deep so seedlings struggle to emerge.

• Allowing weeds to get out of control during establishment.

• Not inoculating seeds with the proper rhizobia bacteria.

• Overwatering young plants, causing root rot.

• Failing to control pest pressure on new stands.

• Harvesting or grazing seedlings too soon before roots are anchored.

With good planning and preparation, you can propagate alfalfa successfully. Following these best practices for variety selection, soil prep, planting, weed control and care will set your alfalfa up for years of productive yields. Pay close attention during establishment and don’t let setbacks like weeds or pests gain a foothold. Taking the time up front to propagate alfalfa properly will pay off for the life of your stand.