Ribero ALFALFA FOR RODENTS

Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa) is a plant with trifoliate leaves and blue-violet flowers grown widely as a pasture and hay crop.  Adaptation and Distribution Alfalfa grows best on deep, well-drained, friable soils. Lands subject to frequent overflows or high water tables are unfavorable for alfalfa. The pH of the soil should be 6.5 or above. Alfalfa is distributed throughout the entire United States. Management In general, graze or cut for hay when alfalfa is in early bloom. Graze or cut to about a 2-inch height. Successive grazings and cuttings for hay should occur at ¼ bloom stage or after a 5 to 6 week recovery period. Alfalfa can best withstand grazing if rotated frequently or grazed in small strips. The last cutting of alfalfa should be made 3 to 4 weeks before the first killing frost date. Alfalfa may cause livestock to bloat. Care should be used in managing such grazing to reduce the possibility of this hazard. Pests and Potential Problems Alfalfa is susceptible to the spotted or pea aphid, alfalfa weevil, stem nematode, bacterial wilt, snout beetle, and several leaf spots. Uses Crops: Alfalfa is harvested as hay which is processed or fed directly to livestock, or for seed production. It is also used in pellets as forage supplements. Livestock: This plant is grown in combination with grasses in improved pastures. It is grazed by all types of domestic livestock. Caution should be taken when using alfalfa for grazing due to its high bloat hazard. Wildlife: Alfalfa is an excellent food for antelope, deer, elk, Canada goose, and sage and sharp tail grouse. It is fair food for sandhill crane, mallard, Hungarian partridge, and pheasant. In addition to providing high quality hay, grazing, and wildlife forage and protection, alfalfa is an important source of leaf meal used for fortifying baby food and other special diet foods prepared for human use. Large quantities of dehydrated alfalfa are also used in manufacturing concentrated feeds for poultry and livestock.