Top end alfalfa production, including increased tonnage and high quality, comes from use of technology and management. That was the message speakers shared with farmers at Alfalfa U in Sioux Falls this week.
University of Nebraska Integrated Weed Management Specialist Nevin Lawrence says the key to weed control in alfalfa is a lush and healthy stand.

Even though alfalfa fixes its own nitrogen, fertility is also important in alfalfa production. Curt Woolfolk with Mosaic says that means a balanced approach to crop nutrition.

Better genetics are also helping push the production and quality envelope. Don Miller with Alforex Seeds says to get the highest quality alfalfa producers also need to find the sweet spot on harvesting at the correct leaf to stem ratio, which changes as the plant matures.

He also shared more on the new varieties of alfalfa with improved stem to leaf ratio.