Alfalfa, also called Lucerne, is considered the King of forage legumes and is grown extensively across the United States. Its adaptability has allowed it to naturalize to local conditions, and it is often found growing on roadsides and ditches. Alfalfa is high-yielding, has great nutritional quality for livestock and wildlife, helps prevent soil erosion and creates habitat for beneficial insects. Its ease of growth and versatility make it a top choice as a forage, cover crop or green manure. Healthy stands of Alfalfa can fix up to 250 lbs/acre (6 lbs/1000 sq. ft) of Nitrogen each year, which is higher than any other legume. It has extensive roots that grow as deep as 10 feet, helping to build organic matter, improve soil structure and scavenge nutrients from lower depths. As a hardy perennial, alfalfa can survive some of the harshest Canadian winter conditions, allowing stands to stay strong and healthy for at least three years. If used as a forage, the crop should be tilled once the density falls below 50 stems/square foot. Grows as a perennial in Zone 2 or warmer. It can be planted in spring or fall. However, young plants require at least 6 weeks of growing season before freezing temperatures if planted in fall. The plants can be cut or mowed 1 to 3 times per season. Most growers cut at least once during or just after flowering. 250g covers approximately 1000 sq. ft1 kg covers approximately 4000 sq. ft FOR PLANTING PURPOSES ONLY. Seed should not be used as food or feed.
