How Much Seed Does an Acre of Alfalfa Need? Seeding Rate Reference

Planting one acre of alfalfa requires 8-12 jin of seed. When planting, choose high-quality, plump alfalfa seeds, and keep the sowing depth at 1-2 cm.

Key points for growing alfalfa:

1. Site and Seed Selection

Although alfalfa is widely adaptable and can grow in various terrains and soils, the most suitable conditions are soft, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. In addition, when selecting seeds, buy plump, high-quality seeds from a merchant with a complete range of qualifications.

2. Land Preparation and Fertilization

Before sowing alfalfa, the land must be finely prepared. Land preparation is best done in summer, with one deep plowing and one deep harrowing to turn weeds into the deeper layers. If there are many weeds before autumn sowing, deep plow or rotary till once more, then harrow level to meet sowing requirements. Before sowing, combine land preparation with a single application of 2-3 sq m/mu of organic fertilizer and 8-16 kg/mu of pure phosphorus.

3. Sowing

In northern regions with two crops a year, autumn sowing is generally used. Soil moisture is sufficient, the temperature is suitable, and there are fewer weeds, pests, and diseases. In Shaanxi, Hebei, Henan, Shanxi, and Shandong, autumn sowing is best, with the sowing period from August 10 to September 10. Sowing too late affects normal overwintering.

4. Field Management

Water before winter, after green-up, and during drought. In coastal and low-lying areas, pay attention to drainage during the rainy season. In addition, do a good job of weed control and pest and disease prevention.

Alfalfa can generally be harvested 4 times a year, and one sowing can benefit for 10 years. It is one of the widely used livestock feeds, and the growing benefits are considerable.