NORTH PLATTE, Neb. — Were you expecting more from your alfalfa yields from the first cuttings? Is it time to renovate, start over, or move on? Typically evaluating alfalfa stands occurs in spring, but checking out those areas this fall will give you more time for weighing options going forward.
There are two options when evaluating your stand: First, by the number of plants per square foot (typically recommended for newer stands) and second, by the number of stems, for established stands. University of Wisconsin research shows that stem count more accurately predicts yield compared to plant number, however, either method will provide information that can be useful for making management decisions.
To determine the number of plants or stems per square foot I recommend using a hay square. Your hay square should measure 17 x 17 inches square or be a 19 inch diameter circle. A quick and cheap option is to build one out of ½ in. PVC and some 90° corners. If you can find a hula hoop that is 19 inches in diameter, that works too, but be prepared for some funny looks as you measure hoop diameter in the store.
Pick 5 random areas in your field to sample. Then count the plants or stems that would be harvested. Typically anything over 6 inches in height qualifies to determine your count. Next, divide those numbers in half to get stems or plants per square foot. For established stands having 4 to 5 healthy plants per square foot or 55 stems per square foot would warrant a productive and healthy stand. Stem counts below 55 see a significant decrease in dry matter production. For spring established stands, 10-15 plants per square foot is a perfectly healthy stand as the alfalfa begins to age. Plants will continue to branch out, so 35-55 stems per square foot is the goal at this point.
Evaluate your alfalfa stand this fall to determine needs for spring. For established stands 4 to 5 plants and 55 stems per square foot are good while new stands should have 10-15 plants or 35-55 stems per square foot. If your stand is below these thresholds, we need to start weighing our options.
— Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension
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