A healthy and vigorous alfalfa stand minimizes many production problems. Evaluate the stand and its yield potential by counting the number of stems per square. Count stems that will be cut by a mower, after plants are 4 to 6 inches tall.
| Stems/square foot | Effect on Yield |
|---|---|
| 55 | Stem density not limiting yield. |
| 40-55 | Some yield reduction expected. |
| < 40 | Consider destroying the stand |
Dig a random sampling of plants and split roots lengthwise to assess their health and vigor. Healthy stands have fewer than 30% of plants with significant injury (discoloration and rot in the crown and taproot). Stands with a high percentage of plants with greater than 50% rot should be considered for replacement.
The following table provides general guidelines for plant density in alfalfa stands.
| Minimum No. of Plants/square foot | |
|---|---|
| Fall of seeding year | 25 - 30 |
| 2nd | 10 - 15 |
| 3rd or older | 5 - 6 |
Generally, stands with less than 40 stems per square foot or 3 to 4 healthy plants per square foot will not be profitable for forage production.