ALFALFA STAND ESTABLISHMENT

Good planning (along with generally good farming practices, some art, and a bit of luck) is critical to reliable alfalfa stand establishment. The exact steps required for success vary from farm to farm and from year to year. However, the 12 Keys included in the Alfalfa Establishment Checklist below include most of the critical activities.   

Alfalfa Establishment Checklist:   

Site Selection - Choose a deep, fertile, well-drained soil.   
Soil Test - Fertilize and lime according to a reliable soil analysis.   
Land Preparation - Plow, level, and drain low areas well before sowing.   
Seedbed Preparation - 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. 20 to Sept. 15.   
Seed Placement - Cover seeds with 1/2" soil and press.   
Sowing Rate - Plant 10-12 lbs./ac. of good seed.   
Equipment - Calibrate and adjust planters to place seed correctly.   
Seed Inoculation - Use rhizobium bacteria, specific for alfalfa.   
Pest Control - Scout fields frequently. Control of weeds, insects, and diseases is especially important in seedling stands.   

The objective of alfalfa stand establishment is to obtain about 30 vigorously growing seedlings per square foot before extreme weather conditions prevail. Some producers who want to plant alfalfa this August or September should check off the listed keys to determine if they are really ready. The first three should be completed, and many of the other keys should be underway. 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