Many areas received late season rain and light frosts that left alfalfa plants pretty much unaffected. In these areas there may be a substantial, high quality alfalfa crop remaining in the field.
Alfalfa that has had at least six weeks of growth since the last cutting will have developed adequate winterhardiness for all but the most severe winters. It also has begun to go dormant naturally because of shorter days and cooler temperatures. As a result, harvest will not reduce winter reserves, nor is it likely to jeopardize stand persistence.
Tips for success
Hay harvest can be difficult in October because alfalfa will dry and cure more slowly than it did with warmer temperatures. If you do cut hay now,
Often it is better to harvest alfalfa as haylage in October. Less drying is needed, and since drying is slower, haylage can be made at a more uniform moisture content than in summer. October alfalfa also tends to preserve well as haylage..
Grazing is another option, but continue to be cautious about bloat. Avoid grazing on wet soils, or stand damage could occur. Good alfalfa in mid-October doesn't have to be sacrificed to maintain winter-hardiness. Just be sure the crop had adequate time to develop winter-hardiness and then select a good harvest method.
Bruce Anderson
Extension Forage Specialist
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