Grazing Alfalfa for Top Returns

How to do it!
Rotational grazing on 28-30 day schedule or base on re-growth of alfalfa. Intensive Grazing management will give you the greatest returns. Leave at least a 2 inch stubble for best re-growth and yields. Spring flush of growth put up extra alfalfa as silage or hay.

Should you mix alfalfa with grasses?
Yes, it will hold down the chance of bloat. We recommend orchard grass that matches the growing time of the alfalfa variety. An example Ladak dry land should use Piaute orchard grass. We can recommend the best available variety to match your grazing program.

What kind of fertility is necessary?
Balanced fertility based upon soil test and leaf analysis to guide you. We have shortages of phosphorous and sulfur in our northern California soils. Check with your local fertilizer dealer for costs and application method.

Planting time and rates:
Planting in the fall Sept, through late October is best for establishment. You can plant alfalfa almost any time frost is not a danger. Alfalfa will germinate in the hot summer with the use of sprinklers.

Recommended Varieties:

• Dryland
• Ladak - old variety with large crowns to store energy. Summer dormant. Group 2 maturity.
• Ladak can be used in the foothills and up in the high mountain valleys.
• Nomad - long lived, tough, spreading crown that also stores energy, has survived 7 seasons of continuous grazing in high mountain pastures. Group 2 maturity.
• Rambler - long lived, tough spreading roots that allows to survive under 15 inches or less rainfall. Group 2 maturity.
• Irrigated
• GrazeKing - long lived, selected for grazing and hay production. Multiple pest resistant. Excellent choice for irrigated pastures and hay fields in the Sacramento Valley. Group 5 maturity.

To learn more about grazing alfalfa and what it can do for you, call Kellogg's Ag. Service @ 530/872-2624.

copyright 2002 Kellogg's Ag. Service