Alfalfa: feed value and use on the farm
Alfalfa is a perennial legume grown for hay, silage and green chop. Deep roots and high protein content make it a widely used forage for dairy cows, beef cattle, sheep and goats. The leaves contain more protein than the stems, so when you cut alfalfa makes a big difference to its feed value.
Why does cutting time matter?
Alfalfa cut early usually makes higher-protein hay. For example, hay cut at the bud stage generally contains more crude protein than hay from the same field cut late in bloom. Adjust the ration's protein supplement to suit the hay you have in store.
How can HerdMobile help?
HerdMobile helps you calculate rations using your own alfalfa hay and its dry matter, protein and fibre values, so the feed you have in store shapes the daily ration.
Questions from the farm
Is alfalfa the same as lucerne?
Yes. Alfalfa and lucerne are regional names for the same legume, widely grown as a forage crop.
Why does the cutting stage matter?
Younger alfalfa has a greater share of leaves and protein, with less stem fibre. Hay cut at the bud stage usually contains more crude protein than hay cut in full bloom.
How HerdMobile helps
Bring your animals, feed stocks and farm accounts together on your Android phone. HerdMobile keeps your daily work moving offline: record events, compare feed quantities and follow sales and payments in one place. Use your own feeds and herd information to prepare a ration, then keep a backup file under your control.
Add your alfalfa's feed values once in HerdMobile, then use its protein and fibre content to plan daily rations with the hay you have.
