Alfalfa is a perennial plant grown primarily as animal feed due to its high content of minerals, vitamins, and protein compared to other forage crops. It is also used as a medicinal herb for humans. Alfalfa belongs to the legume family and is classified as a herbaceous plant. It is cultivated worldwide and is known for its ability to withstand different climatic conditions such as heat, drought, and cold. However, proper fertilization is essential for achieving higher yields and better-quality crops.
How to Fertilize Alfalfa
You can fertilize alfalfa by following these steps:
1. Conduct a Soil Test
A soil test helps determine the soil’s fertility level and identify which nutrients are needed.
2. Fertilization During Planting
- Newly planted alfalfa requires phosphorus, potassium, and other plant nutrients immediately after emergence.
- Applying high concentrations of fertilizer too close to the seeds can damage seedlings; therefore, fertilizers should be placed at a safe distance—close enough to be effective but not harmful.
If precision fertilizing equipment is unavailable, applying fertilizer before planting is recommended. - Phosphorus is the most important nutrient during alfalfa planting because it enhances seedling strength, supports nitrogen fixation, and improves the plant’s ability to survive winter.
3. Inoculating Alfalfa Seeds
Inoculate alfalfa seeds with an appropriate strain of Rhizobium bacteria.
These bacteria form nodules on the roots and convert atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form—a process known as nitrogen fixation.
This allows alfalfa to meet most of its nitrogen needs without nitrogen fertilizers.
Benefits of Fertilizing Alfalfa
Proper fertilization of alfalfa leads to:
- Higher yields with superior quality.
- Improved soil fertility, ensuring long-term field sustainability.
- Increasing protein levels in the crop by creating a suitable environment for nitrogen-fixing bacteria, reducing the need for nitrogen fertilizers.
Tips for Fertilizing Alfalfa
Here are important recommendations for successful alfalfa fertilization:
- Apply potassium fertilizer yearly after the first harvest, preferably in August, to enhance yield.
- Conduct a soil test regularly to ensure proper nutrient application.
- Inspect plant roots frequently; diseased roots cannot absorb nutrients efficiently, which affects crop growth.
- Monitor soil pH levels, as acidic soil reduces nutrient uptake.
Alfalfa requires a pH of at least 6.5, otherwise crop performance will decline significantly.
