Can You Plant Alfalfa in the Fall?

Alfalfa is a cool-season legume that is often grown for hay production or used as a forage crop for livestock. Many farmers and gardeners wonder whether they can plant alfalfa in the fall. The answer is yes, but there are a few things you need to know before you get started.

What to Know Before Planting Alfalfa in the Fall

Planting alfalfa in the fall can be a great way to get a head start on next year's crop, but it is important to choose the right time and conditions for planting. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Soil temperature: Alfalfa seeds need soil temperatures of at least 50掳F to germinate, and they will not grow well if the soil is too cold or too damp. Make sure to plant your seeds when the soil is warm and dry.

Frost tolerance: Alfalfa seedlings are fairly tolerant of light frosts, but they can be damaged or killed by hard freezes. Be prepared to protect your plants if a freeze is expected.

Growth rate: Alfalfa grows more slowly in the fall than in the spring or summer, and it may not reach full maturity before winter. This can affect yield and quality, so be sure to take this into consideration when planting.

How to Plant Alfalfa in the Fall

Once you have decided to plant alfalfa in the fall, there are a few steps you can follow to ensure success:

Prepare the soil: Alfalfa prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Make sure to loosen the soil and remove any weeds or debris before planting.

Seed selection: Choose a variety of alfalfa that is well-suited to your region and planting conditions. You may also want to consider using a seed inoculant to help the plants fix nitrogen.

Planting depth: Alfalfa seeds should be planted no deeper than 1/4 to 1/2 inch in the soil. They should be planted in rows or broadcast uniformly over the soil surface.

Watering: Alfalfa seeds need to be watered regularly after planting to help them germinate and establish. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to disease and poor growth.

Fertilization: Alfalfa may benefit from a light application of phosphorus and potassium before planting. However, be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excess vegetative growth and reduced yield.

Conclusion

Planting alfalfa in the fall can be a great way to get a head start on next year's crop. However, it is important to choose the right time and conditions for planting, and to follow best practices for seed selection, planting depth, watering, and fertilization. With a little care and attention, you can grow a healthy alfalfa crop that will provide nutritious forage for your livestock or high-quality hay for sale.