Lucerne, also recognized as alfalfa, is an exceptionally adaptable legume that has been farmed for millennia due to its diverse advantages. It has a rich and intriguing history, with uses ranging from being a staple in traditional medicine to serving as a fundamental source of animal feed and an effective tool for land restoration.
Alfalfa seed has been found in clay storage containers from an archaeological dig site from an agricultural storehouse more than 2,500 years old in Central Asia. The plant then made its way across the civilizations of the ancient world, with documented use in Egypt, Greece, and Rome. In the 16th century, the Spanish introduced alfalfa to the Americas, where it swiftly gained significance as a primary livestock feed and as a cover crop, vital for enhancing soil condition.
For centuries, alfalfa has been a fundamental component of traditional medicine, acclaimed by numerous cultures for its myriad therapeutic properties. In the realm of ancient Greek medicine, it was thought to impart a cooling influence on the body, becoming a preferred treatment for fevers. Meanwhile, in China, alfalfa was held in high regard for its perceived positive impact on digestive health, making it a common remedy for ulcers and other related conditions.
In contemporary times, the primary purpose of cultivating alfalfa is to serve as fodder for livestock. Rich in protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients important for animal health, this cover crop is often used primarily to feed grazing cattle. Alfalfa can be grown alone or as part of a mixed hay crop and is typically harvested several times per year.
Beyond its role as livestock fodder, alfalfa is regularly deployed as a cover crop. Being a legume, it holds the unique capacity to facilitate nitrogen fixation in the soil, which significantly contributes to enhancing soil quality and fertility. Its deep root system also helps to break up compacted soil and can help to reduce erosion.
Alfalfa has also been used for rewilding fallow land, with some conservationists using it to restore degraded ecosystems. By planting alfalfa, a self-sustaining ecosystem is created, that re-establishes the plants and animals that once flourished the natural environment.
Alfalfa plays a crucial role as a land reclamation crop, especially in regions disrupted by mining or other industrial undertakings. Its profound root system aids in soil stabilization and erosion prevention. Simultaneously, its nitrogen-fixing ability can foster an enhancement in soil fertility, aiding in the rejuvenation of the soil ecosystem.
There is a diverse array of alfalfa types and varieties, each exhibiting unique attributes and adaptations to varying growth conditions.
Common Alfalfa: This variety is the most prevalently grown type, acclimated to a broad spectrum of soil types and cultivation conditions. As a perennial plant, it can reach heights of up to 3 feet, flaunting purple flowers. In 70 days, it blooms, and flowers more when 10 or more plants occupy each square foot of the land area. This variety is commonly plagued by pests and diseases like the alfalfa weevil, aphids, and leaf spot.
Dormant Alfalfa: This alfalfa type is suited to chillier climates and endures a more extended period of winter dormancy compared to other variants. Like the common type, it is also a perennial plant, growing up to 3 feet tall, adorned with purple blossoms. This variety generally takes approximately 70-80 days to bloom and thrives best with a plant density of about 12-15 plants per square foot. Root rot, alfalfa weevil, and stem nematodes are common pests and diseases associated with this variety.
Non-dormant Alfalfa: This alfalfa variant is tailored for warmer climates and experiences a shorter winter dormancy compared to other types. Identical in height to the other two types, it too grows up to 3 feet tall, sprouting purple flowers. It takes non-dormant alfalfa about 60 days to flower. A plant density of 20 plants per square foot is recommended. Aphids, root rot, and bacterial wilt are among the common pests and diseases that afflict this variety.
Roundup Ready Alfalfa: This variety of alfalfa is a genetically engineered type that demonstrates resistance to the commonly used weed-controlling herbicide, glyphosate. It follows the perennial growth pattern, potentially reaching up to 3 feet in height, and blooms with purple flowers. Roundup Ready alfalfa typically takes about 60-70 days to flower and has a recommended plant density of 15-20 plants per square foot. Common pests and diseases of this variety include alfalfa weevil, aphids, and leaf spot.
Leafy Alfalfa: This version of alfalfa showcases a greater leaf-to-stem ratio, making it more appetizing and nutrient-rich for animals. As with other variants, it is a perennial plant with the capacity to grow up to 3 feet tall, bearing purple flowers. In 70 days, leafy alfalfa blooms if plant density is around 20 plants per foot. Common pests and diseases of this variety include alfalfa weevil, aphids, and bacterial wilt.
Grazing Alfalfa: This variety of alfalfa is specifically adapted to grazing and has a low growing point, allowing it to recover quickly after grazing. This is a perennial plant that can reach heights up to 3 feet, and it produces purple flowers. Typically, grazing alfalfa takes 60 days to bloom and should be sown with a plant density between 12 to 15 plants per foot. Common pests and diseases of this variety include alfalfa weevil, aphids, and leaf spot.
Hay Alfalfa: This variety of alfalfa is specifically adapted to grazing and has a low growing point, allowing it to recover quickly after grazing. This is a perennial plant that can reach heights up to 3 feet, and it produces purple flowers. Typically, grazing alfalfa takes 60 days to bloom and should be sown with a plant density between 12 to 15 plants per foot. Common pests and diseases of this variety include alfalfa weevil, aphids, and leaf spot.
Organic alfalfa: To be classified as organic, alfalfa must be grown without the use of man-made fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides. Organic alfalfa is typically planted at a higher density to compete with weeds and maintain soil fertility. It is typically harvested less frequently than conventional alfalfa to allow for natural regrowth.
Low-lignin alfalfa: This is a comparatively new variant of alfalfa that's been genetically engineered to yield less lignin - an indigestible structural element in plants for livestock. This variety is highly digestible, which can potentially elevate milk production in dairy cows. To optimize yield, low-lignin alfalfa is typically sown at a higher density.
Alfalfa usually comes into bloom in spring or the early summer, presenting flowers that can vary in color from purple to blue or yellow. The plant density per acre can fluctuate based on the variety and the purpose it's meant to serve, but it generally spans between 10 to 25 pounds of seed per acre. Alfalfa can be prone to numerous pests and diseases, like the alfalfa weevil, aphids, leafhoppers, root rot and bacterial wilt. Adopting integrated pest management strategies, such as crop rotation, pest-resistant varieties, and timely insecticide applications, can aid in averting or managing these issues.
Alfalfa stands above others as a nutrient-dense crop, abundant in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is exceptionally protein-rich, boasting a protein content that can reach up to 20%, making it a significant fodder crop for livestock.
Alfalfa contains vitamins A, C, E, and K, minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium and phytochemicals, which include flavonoids and saponins. These compounds have been proven to provide numerous health benefits.
Alfalfa offers a variety of environmental benefits as well. Being a legume, alfalfa possesses the capability to facilitate nitrogen fixation in the soil. This process reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilizers and contributes to soil health improvement. Its deep root system plays a crucial role in loosening compacted soil and assists in erosion reduction. Furthermore, its propensity to draw pollinators and other advantageous insects can aid in promoting a diverse ecosystem. Alfalfa is also a good choice for intercropping or as a cover crop, helping to improve soil health and reduce weed pressure.
Alfalfa is a superior cover crop that offers a range of benefits for farmers and for the environment. It's a great soil builder!. The nitrogen fixing root capability of an alfalfa plant add organic nutrient to soil, which feeds subsequent generations of plants for years to come. Over time, this nutrient rich soil builds a subterranean ecosystem filled with all manner of invertebrate and insect.
Alfalfa has the potential to offer numerous ecosystem advantages, particularly when utilized in rewilding or as part of a diverse ecosystem. Its propensity to draw pollinators and other advantageous insects can bolster a varied and thriving ecosystem, and its profound root system can aid in maintaining soil health and water storage. Furthermore, Alfalfa can serve as a habitat for numerous wildlife species, especially when incorporated into extensive restoration initiatives.
