Alfalfa Plant Information

Alfalfa plant is a perennial legume with trifoliate leaves and blue to violet flowers. It belongs to the family of Fabaceae (the Pea and Bean family). It is the most important forage crop in the world. Alfalfa plant is a natural source of nitrogen, because it hosts symbiotic soil bacteria (rhizobia) in the root nodules that “fix” (bind and deposit) nitrogen from the air into the soil. Thus, it makes nitrogen accessible to other plants.

Alfalfa plant is highly adaptable to varying cultivation and weather conditions. It can show great tolerance to draught. This can be achieved due to its root system, that can go deep up to 15-30 ft. (4.5 to 9 m), searching for water and nutrients. The average length of the root is 4-5 ft (1.2-1.5 m). The upper part of the plant is shorter compared to the root system. The plant’s height ranges from 2 to 4 ft (60 to 120 cm). Alfalfa plant thrives in well drained soils, as soggy soils promote the development of various diseases.

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1.) Alfalfa Uses & General Info

2.) Alfalfa Plant Information

3.) How to grow Alfalfa

4.) Alfalfa Soil Requirements – Variety Selection – Weed Management

5.) Sowing and Seeding Rate of Alfalfa

6.) Alfalfa Fertilizer Requirements

7.) Alfalfa Water Requirements

8.) Alfalfa Harvest & Yield per Acre

9.) Alfalfa Crop Rotation

10.) Q&As Alfalfa

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