A method for estimating fiber content (an excellent measure of alfalfa quality) of the standing crop is described on the next two pages. When timothy or smooth bromegrass are included in the stand, do not cut until the grass is in early heading stage to prevent damage to the grass stand. These grasses are best adapted to a 3-cut schedule with alfalfa. Mixed stands with orchardgrass, ryegrass, tall fescue, and reed canarygrass can be harvested on a 4- to 5-cut schedule.
Allow alfalfa to reach early to mid-flower stage during one growth interval to improve stand persistence. This should occur in late summer (after the second or third harvest), because forage quality does not decline as quickly at this time of the year with advancing maturity as earlier in the year.