How to Grow Alfalfa Plant Outdoors

Alfalfa, also known as lucerne, is a versatile and nutritious plant that can be grown outdoors in your garden or yard. With its deep root system and high tolerance for drought, alfalfa is a hardy plant that can thrive in various climates. Not only is alfalfa a great addition to your garden for its soil-enriching properties, but it also provides a nutritious source of feed for livestock. In this article, we will discuss how you can successfully grow alfalfa plants outdoors.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in growing alfalfa plants outdoors is selecting the right location. Alfalfa requires plenty of sunlight to grow well, so choose a spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, alfalfa thrives in well-drained soil, so make sure the planting area has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

Soil Preparation

Before planting alfalfa seeds, it is important to prepare the soil properly. Alfalfa grows best in soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. You can test the pH of your soil using a soil testing kit available at most garden centers. If the pH is too low, you can raise it by adding lime to the soil.

In addition to pH levels, alfalfa prefers soil that is rich in organic matter. Prior to planting, incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility and structure.

Planting Alfalfa Seeds

Alfalfa can be grown from seeds or transplants. If you are starting from seeds, sow them directly into the prepared soil after the last frost date in your area. It is best to plant alfalfa seeds about ¼ inch deep and space them 1 inch apart.

Keep the soil consistently moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to about 4-6 inches apart to allow room for growth.

Watering and Maintenance

Alfalfa plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Make sure to water deeply but infrequently to encourage the plant’s deep root system to develop. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Fertilize your alfalfa plants with a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen to promote healthy growth. Additionally, consider applying a layer of mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

Harvesting Alfalfa

Alfalfa can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season. The first cutting is usually done when the plant reaches about 24 inches tall. Cut the plants about 2 inches above the ground using sharp shears, leaving some growth for regrowth.

Subsequent cuttings can be made every 4-6 weeks depending on the growth rate of your alfalfa plants. Allow the plants to regrow between cuttings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

Pests and Diseases

While alfalfa is relatively pest-resistant, there are some common pests and diseases that may affect your plants. Aphids, leafhoppers, and weevils are some of the insects that may feed on alfalfa plants. To control these pests, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Diseases such as root rot and crown rot can also affect alfalfa plants, especially in poorly drained soils. To prevent diseases, avoid overwatering and ensure proper soil drainage.

Conclusion

Growing alfalfa plants outdoors can be a rewarding experience for gardeners looking to enhance their soil fertility and provide nutritious feed for livestock. By following these tips on choosing the right location, preparing the soil, planting seeds, watering and maintenance, harvesting, and managing pests and diseases, you can successfully grow alfalfa in your outdoor space. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of this versatile and beneficial plant year after year.