What To Know
- This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ensure a thriving lucerne crop.
- Dormancy refers to the period when lucerne plants remain in a dormant state.
- The ideal time to sow lucerne is in the spring or fall when soil temperatures are warm enough for germination.
Lucerne, also known as alfalfa, is a perennial forage crop renowned for its high nutritional value and drought tolerance. Sowing lucerne successfully requires careful preparation, optimal conditions, and proper techniques. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to ensure a thriving lucerne crop.
1. Site Selection and Soil Preparation
- Choose a well-drained field: Lucerne thrives in well-aerated soils with good drainage. Avoid areas prone to waterlogging.
- Test soil pH and fertility: Lucerne prefers a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Amend the soil with lime if necessary to raise the pH. Ensure adequate phosphorus and potassium levels.
- Prepare the seedbed: Plow the field to a depth of 8-10 inches and remove any weeds or debris. Create a fine, firm seedbed to facilitate good seed contact with the soil.
2. Selecting Lucerne Varieties
- Choose varieties suitable for your climate: Different lucerne varieties are adapted to specific climates. Consult with local agricultural extension services for recommended varieties.
- Consider yield potential and disease resistance: Select varieties with high yield potential and resistance to common diseases in your area.
- Choose varieties with appropriate dormancy: Dormancy refers to the period when lucerne plants remain in a dormant state. Select varieties with dormancy that matches your desired grazing or harvesting schedule.
3. Inoculating Lucerne Seed
- Inoculate seeds with nitrogen-fixing bacteria: Lucerne requires specific bacteria (Rhizobium meliloti) to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. Inoculate seeds with these bacteria before sowing to ensure optimal nitrogen availability.
- Use fresh inoculant: Ensure the inoculant is fresh and stored properly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates and methods.
4. Sowing Lucerne
- Sow at the right time: The ideal time to sow lucerne is in the spring or fall when soil temperatures are warm enough for germination.
- Determine seeding rate: Seeding rates vary depending on variety and soil conditions. Consult with local agricultural extension services for recommended rates.
- Sow shallowly: Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Deeper sowing may result in poor germination.
- Use a disk drill or broadcaster: Sow seeds using a disk drill or broadcaster to ensure even distribution.
5. Seedling Establishment
- Water regularly: Keep the seedbed moist until seedlings emerge. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to disease.
- Control weeds: Weeds can compete with lucerne seedlings for water and nutrients. Use herbicides or manual weeding to control weeds.
- Fertilize with nitrogen: Apply a light application of nitrogen fertilizer (20-30 lbs/acre) after seedlings emerge. This will promote vegetative growth.
6. Lucerne Management
- Grazing and harvesting: Lucerne can be grazed or harvested for hay or silage. Allow plants to reach a height of 12-15 inches before grazing or harvesting.
- Fertilization: Fertilize lucerne regularly with phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur. Consult with local agricultural extension services for specific recommendations.
- Irrigation: Lucerne is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional irrigation during dry periods.
- Pest and disease control: Monitor lucerne stands for pests and diseases. Consult with local agricultural extension services for management strategies.
7. Lucerne Stand Longevity
- Maintain soil pH: Lucerne prefers a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Monitor soil pH and adjust as necessary.
- Control weeds: Weeds can compete with lucerne plants and reduce stand longevity. Implement a weed management program.
- Renovate stands: After several years, lucerne stands may decline in productivity. Renovate stands by disking and re-sowing.
Final Thoughts: Harvesting the Benefits of Lucerne
By following these comprehensive guidelines, you can successfully sow and cultivate lucerne, a highly nutritious and valuable forage crop. Lucerne provides excellent feed for livestock, enhances soil fertility, and supports sustainable agricultural practices. Embrace the potential of lucerne and reap the benefits of this versatile plant.
FAQ: Lucerne Sowing and Cultivation
Q: How long does it take for lucerne seeds to germinate?
A: Lucerne seeds typically germinate within 5-10 days under optimal conditions.
Q: How deep should I sow lucerne seeds?
A: Sow seeds at a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Deeper sowing may result in poor germination.
Q: How much nitrogen fertilizer should I apply to lucerne seedlings?
A: Apply a light application of nitrogen fertilizer (20-30 lbs/acre) after seedlings emerge.
Q: How often should I irrigate lucerne?
A: Lucerne is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional irrigation during dry periods.
Q: How long does a lucerne stand last?
A: With proper management, lucerne stands can last for several years, typically 3-5 years or more.
