Quick Overview
Alfalfa , a highly alimentary andversatile crop , has become a basic in Oklahoma ’s agricultural landscape painting . fuck for its exceptional protein subject , thislegume playsa vital purpose in supporting livestock production and sustain soil health . If you ’re an aspiring or experienced farmer in Oklahoma , surmount the art of alfalfa polish is of the essence . This comprehensive scout will provide you with all the cognition and techniques you need tosuccessfully develop alfalfain the Sooner State .
Understanding Alfalfa’s Soil Requirements
Alfalfa thrives in well - drain soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 . toilsome clay soil or those withpoor drainagecanhinder root developmentand plant development . Before planting , do a dirt test to determine the pH and nutrient grade . If the land is acidic , apply agricultural lime tree to raise the pH.
Optimal Planting Time and Seeding Rate
The ideal meter toplant alfalfain Oklahoma is in the fall , typically from late August toearly October . This allows the plant to institute a strong root system before theharsh winter conditions . The recommended seeding pace is 20 to 25 pounds per acre .
Seedbed Preparation and Planting Techniques
organise the seedbed by disking the territory to a astuteness of 4 to 6 inches and remove any weeds or debris . employ a no - till drillor cultipacker to plant thealfalfa seedsat a depth of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch . Ensure good source - to - soil contactby wind the battlefield after planting .
Fertilization and Irrigation
Alfalfa requires adequate fecundation to fill itshigh nutrient demands . hold a balanced fertilizer , such as 10 - 10 - 10 , at a pace of 200 to 300 Ezra Loomis Pound per acre after each harvest . Irrigation is not typically necessary unless there isprolonged drought . However , supplemental watering can enhance production and industrial plant wellness .
Weed and Pest Control
Weeds can compete with alfalfa for nutrients and water , reducing yield . follow out aneffective skunk control programusing weedkiller or mechanically skillful cultivation . Common alfalfa pests admit aphid , armyworm , and leafhoppers . Monitor your fields regularly and put on appropriate pesticides if necessary .
Harvesting and Storage
Alfalfa is typically harvest 3 to 4 times per twelvemonth , starting when the plants reach theearly bloom stage . Use a sickle lawn mower or mower - conditioner to reduce the lucerne at a acme of 2 to 3 inch . After cut , allow the lucerne to dry out in the field for several days before baling or stacking it in windrows . Store the hay in a dry , well - ventilated areato prevent spoil .
Common Alfalfa Varieties for Oklahoma
Severalalfalfa varietiesare well - suit to Oklahoma ’s climate andsoil status . These include :
Tips for Successful Alfalfa Production
Frequently Asked Questions
Q : What is the best time toplant alfalfain Oklahoma?A : Theideal planting timeis in the fall , fromlate Augustto former October . Q : How deeply should I plant Medicago sativa seeds?A : engraft the seed at a profoundness of about 1/4 to 1/2 in . Q : What is therecommended seeding ratefor alfalfa in Oklahoma?A : Therecommended seed rateis 20 to 25 pound per Akka . Q : How often should I fecundate alfalfa?A : Apply abalanced fertilizerafter each harvesting at a rate of 200 to 300 hammering per Akko . Q : What are thecommon peststhataffect alfalfain Oklahoma?A : Common pests let in aphids , army worm , and leafhoppers . Q : How can I forestall alfalfa weevil infestation?A : Plant resistant miscellany , monitor fields regularly , andapply insecticidesif necessary . Q : What is theaverage yieldof alfalfa in Oklahoma?A : Theaverage yield vary dependingon factors such assoil condition , climate , andmanagement praxis , but typically ranges from 3 to 6 stacks per acre .
