Are you considering establishing a new alfalfa stand this coming spring? Site selection, proper weed management, good fertilization and seedbed preparation are all crucial steps for a successful stand. Whether it’s Roundup ready or conventional alfalfa, selecting the right variety will dictate yield, quality, potential, degree of insect and disease resistance, as well as longevity of the stand.
Remember several important factors when choosing an alfalfa variety for a specific site. These include winter survival, fall dormancy, disease resistance, persistence and yield potential.
Winter survival and fall dormancy ratings are typically based on a numerical scale. For Nebraska, a winter survival score of 3 or 4 is desired, but a score of 2 may be suited for the northern most areas of the state. For fall dormancy, a score of 3 or 4 is desired for Nebraska.
For disease and insect pest management, a good strategy is to select varieties resistant to the most recurring pests and diseases specific to your location, especially those that have been problematic the last several years. Resistant varieties will save money and time by eliminating or drastically reducing the need for chemical control.
An alfalfa variety that can keep consistent yields up to its fourth and fifth year is considered a persistent variety. Persistence is closely related to winter hardiness, specific weather conditions, past management as well disease and insect pressure. Similarly, yield potential of alfalfa varieties is dictated by its genetics, but actual forage yield that each variety can achieve is limited by field conditions and management practices. — Jerry Volesky, Nebraska Extension
