SPRING PLANTING ALFALFA

Every spring there is interest in planting alfalfa. Producers planning to sow alfalfa this spring should be making final plans now. Good planning, along with some "art" and "good farming" practices are critical to reliable stand establishment -- especially in spring. Planting should be early enough to allow seedlings to develop good root systems prior to the onset of high temperatures (above 90F). Spring sowing is more likely to be successful in the eastern half of the state where rainfall is higher.  

Something New for Weed Control -- We can use Pursuit at 4 oz./acre just after emergence of spring-planted alfalfa. Pursuit is labeled to control many warm-season grasses and broadleaf weeds that usually cause problems. Wait until alfalfa has 2 true (trifoliolate) leaves, but spray while weeds are still small or not germinated.  

Exact steps required for successful stand establishment vary from farm to farm and from year to year, however, there are at least 12 Keys. Each Key is discussed in OSU Extension Facts No. 2089, which also includes several important cost considerations and a discussion of several "Special Circumstances" related to alfalfa stand establishment.  

The Alfalfa Integrated Management (AIM) team has answered many questions about alfalfa stand establishment in a circular (E-949) which is available at County Extension Offices. The questions about stand establishment came from producers.  

Spring-sown alfalfa in Oklahoma is more risky than fall planting. This is primarily due to more problems with strong drying winds, insects, weeds, and intense rains that tend to crust the soil.           

ALFALFA ESTABLISHMENT KEYS  

• Site Selection - Choose a deep, fertile, well- drained soil.

• Soil Test - Apply fertilizer and lime according to a reliable soil analysis. 

• Land Preparation - Plow, level, and drain low areas, well before sowing.

• Seedbed Refinement - Develop a level, mellow, firm bed with small clods.

• Variety Choice - Select adapted, pest-resistant varieties. 

• Seed Quality - Use weed-free, clean seed with good germination.  

• Planting Date - Sow during Aug. 15 to Sept. 15 or March 15 to April 15.  

• Seed Placement - Cover seeds with 1/2" soil and press. 

• Sowing Rate - Plant 10-12 lb./acre of good seed.

• Equipment - Calibrate and adjust planters to place seed in a good environment.  

• Seed Inoculation - Use rhizobium bacteria, specific for alfalfa.

• Pest Control - Control weeds, insects, and diseases.

The objective of alfalfa stand establishment is to obtain about 30 vigorously growing seedlings per square foot before extreme weather conditions prevail.  If you see that you are already far behind, it may be best to start now preparing for next year's planting season.

Additional Information:  

• Alfalfa Stand Establishment Questions and Answers. OSU Extension Circular E-949  

• Alfalfa Stand Establishment. OSU Extension Facts F-2089