Alfalfa

Determining When It's Time to Replace Thinning Alfalfa Stands

July 7, 2017

Are you seeing thinning stands and more weeds in your alfalfa than you'd like? If so, take time out this summer to determine whether you may need to replant the field or rotate out of alfalfa to provide a nitrogen boost for the next crop. Here's a quick guide to assess potential production based on number of shoots per plant.

Large, round hay bales — Figure 1. Timely removal of baled hay from fields can help assure continued yields.

Remove Bales Soon After Harvest to Avoid Future Yield Loss

June 30, 2017

Many hay fields have recently been cut and baled for hay. After the final cutting for the year, it may not matter too much if bales are left in the field, but when more harvests are expected from that field, delaying removal may cut future yield.

Insects Causing Problems for Alfalfa

June 22, 2017

If you’re seeing slow regrowth or weak alfalfa seedlings, it's time to get in the field and scout for the cause, most likely insects at this time of year. Nebraska growers have been reporting all kinds of insects causing problems.

Raise Cutting Height When First Alfalfa Harvest Is Delayed

May 24, 2017

Rain has delayed the first alfalfa cutting for many folks. If you haven’t taken the first cutting yet, you may want to make some adjustments in how you cut it. Even if it is not blooming heavily, you might be surprised to find it already has started to grow your next cutting.

Time First Alfalfa Cutting to Best Fit Your Needs

May 12, 2017

Timing of hay harvest is important whether your needs are for high quality or for high yield. With alfalfa becoming ready to cut soon this spring, don’t miss your best time.

Assessing Freeze Injury to Alfalfa

April 28, 2017

While several areas of the state experienced lows below 28°F this week, widespread alfalfa losses are not expected at this time.

If you're concerned about whether your alfalfa may have suffered frost injury, remember that frozen alfalfa usually needs some time to recover before damage can be estimated.

Research Brief: Ecology and Management of the Alfalfa Weevil

April 28, 2017

If you're growing alfalfa, UNL entomologists recommend a new article in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management: Ecology and Management of the Alfalfa Weevil (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) in Western United States Alfalfa by Makenzie E. Pellissier, Zoe Nelson, and Randa Jabbour.

Postemergence Weed Control in Alfalfa

April 21, 2017

Are you finding weeds in your new alfalfa? Vigorous weed growth this spring may make it extra tough for your seedlings as weeds reduce growth of new alfalfa by shading and competing for moisture.

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