- Soil requirements: Alfalfa seeds prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy growth.
- Sunlight needs: Alfalfa requires full sun to thrive, which means it needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Watering requirements: Alfalfa needs consistent moisture, especially during germination and early growth stages. Water the seeds regularly to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Once established, alfalfa is relatively drought-tolerant.
- Planting season: The best time to plant alfalfa seeds is in the spring or early fall when the soil temperature is between 65°F and 85°F.
- Depth and spacing: Plant alfalfa seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Space the seeds about 1 inch apart in rows that are 6 to 12 inches apart.
- Germination time: Alfalfa seeds typically germinate within 7 to 10 days under optimal conditions.
- Maturity time: Alfalfa reaches maturity in about 60 to 70 days after planting.
- Harvesting time: The best time to harvest alfalfa is when it is in the early bloom stage, which is when about 10% of the plants have started to flower. This is usually in the early morning when the moisture content is highest.
- Harvesting tips: Use a sharp sickle or scythe to cut the alfalfa. After cutting, allow the alfalfa to dry in the field for a day or two before collecting. Store the harvested alfalfa in a cool, dry place to maintain its quality.
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