Cutting Alfalfa? Think About It - Frequently Asked Question

In many cases our alfalfa crops are being harvested too late - generally after the Calgary Stampede! We all know that as alfalfa matures, yields increase but at the expense of quality. A cutting schedule utilizing an early date of cut for the first cut (3rd or 4th week of June depending onlocation) allows for a second cut in August. Using stage of maturity for the second cut (first flower to 25%) is one approach to increase the quality of alfalfa and still maintain yields. This allows 35 to 40 days between cuttings, which will maintain root reserves and persistence. This accomplishes several goals.

Several factors must be acknowledged when using a mulitple cut system.

• We must be prepared to maximize quality knowing that our alfalfa persistence may be reduced, although there are many good alfalfas available which will maintain this harvest regime for 5+ years.
• The first cut affects the future harvests for that year. If it is delayed, the second cut may occur during the "critical cutting period" which is 4-6 weeks before a killing frost. It is better to take a poorer cut in June and set it up for a good cut in August.
• The alfalfa variety trials at Lacombe over the years have shown that generally the first and second cuts have been very similar, depending on the annual growing conditions. Although we only harvested the trials for 3 years, there was no loss of stand when using this harvesting system.
• Weather is always a factor and long-term weather data for your area should be consulted. The risk of rained on hay vs time of cutting must be weighed. The use of silage, bale silage or preservatives may reduce this risk.
• Young alfalfa stands are more winter hardy than older stands.
• Adequate soil fertility must be maintained to ensure production and persistence.
• Soil moisture is always a factor.