About Alfalfa
- Alfalfa is a perennial forage crop grown across the U.S.
- Alfalfa can be cut (harvested) multiple times in one year. Often, the cuttings are baled (similar to hay bales) and stored for later.
- Sometimes alfalfa fields are grazed (eaten by animals as it grows in the field) or made into silage (a fermentation process).
- Alfalfa improves soil nutrients and structure for future crops.
Fast Facts
- Once planted, alfalfa can produce in the same field for several years.
- Alfalfa is considered one of the best forage crops to feed to dairy cows.
- Alfalfa fields provide habitat to a variety of birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Uses
- Forages for animal consumption
- Animal grazing
- Silage
- Human supplements
