Even though harvest is an exceptionally busy time, a Purdue University Extension forage specialist says alfalfa stand evaluation should not be ignored until harvest is over.

Alfalfa, well suited as a component of many rations for ruminant livestock and horses, requires a higher soil pH, ranging from 6.6 to 7.2, than most other forages and agronomic crops. Because changing soil pH can take time, Keith Johnson said producers should look at their alfalfa stands now to see if they are adequate or if new seeding should be planned in the spring of 2014.

"Producers should evaluate the density of the stand and determine if soil fertility, diseases, too frequent harvest or other stresses might be the reason for the decline," he says.

To read more about maintaing your alfalfa stand, click here.

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