Improving Forage Production and Longevity of Alfalfa Stands with Balanced Fertilization
To determine the influence of balanced fertilization on forage production, longevity of alfalfa stands, weed population and disease severity.
IPNI-2000-CAN-SK26
15 Mar 2001
Project Description
- In northeastern Saskatchewan, alfalfa is grown on approximately 80,000 ha for the dehydrated alfalfa pellet market. On the prairies, alfalfa is the main forage seed crop grown, with 49,000 ha grown in western Canada at a value (including leaf-cutter bees) of approximately $50 million. Weed seed contamination of alfalfa seed results in significant losses in cleaning, lowers the certified seed grade and reduces the marketability of the seed. In addition, weed competition can result in substantial losses in hay and seed yield due to competition. Since this seed is the basis of the sun-dried and dehydrated hay industry, seed consumers will also benefit from the availability of weed free seed.