Dr. Charles Brummer’s research at the University of California – Davis has focused on alfalfa breeding. One area of focus is looking into the genetic basis of fall dormancy using various genetic mapping methods. His group is also evaluating a large amount of germplasm to find adapted, high-yielding, non-dormant germplasm under saline conditions and under deficit irrigation.

Alfalfa can get sick too, but oftentimes the influence of a disease goes unrecognized or is mistaken for something else. Find out what ailments are prevalent in your area, what it can do to your alfalfa’s production and what can be done to stop it.

When is the right time to rotate your alfalfa stand?

There are many factors that go into deciding when the time is right to rotate your fields, especially local climate and growing conditions, but there are a few indicators that are consistent regardless of geography.

Roundup Ready (RR) alfalfa is a popular weed management strategy for Western alfalfa producers. Aside from issues related to exporting an RR alfalfa crop to some countries, most growers seem pleased with the technology.

Alfalfa is a staple in many animal diets because it is an excellent source of fiber and high-quality protein. It’s complementary to other types of forage and grain, cost-effective and palatable.

While farming in the ‘North’ brings the benefits of growing some of the best forages like alfalfa and cool-season grasses, it also carries the weight of fall decisions that will ‘make or break’ your profit due to risks of winterkill.