Will Alfalfa Make it Through Winter

Winter kill in alfalfa is something to consider as we go into spring planting season.  Usually, vigorously growing stands of alfalfa with good fertility levels can make it through the winter.  Adequate levels of potassium and lime will help.

We are really just getting to the critical period for alfalfa.  repeated freezing and thawing can cause heave.  So far we have been mostly cold, so heave should be minimal.  Producers need to keep an eye on alfalfa for the nest month to see how it handles the coming weather.  In the photo below, you can see the taproot has been lifted out of the ground 2 to 6 inches.  Some of it is green, but it is unlikely to survive into the summer.

Damaged alfalfa is a good candidate for corn, because it will contribute a good bit of nitrogen to the crop.  Some temporary replacement may be needed to make up for lost forage.

Alfalfa Heaving