Alfalfa is a legume that is commonly grown as hay or forage for livestock. It is also a popular food source for deer. When managed properly alfalfa can provide high-quality forage for deer while also benefiting the soil.
Alfalfa is a cool-season annual crop that should be planted in the early spring. The best time to plant alfalfa for deer is between late March and early April. This will give the crop time to establish itself before the hot summer months.
Alfalfa should be planted in well-drained soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should also be high in organic matter. Alfalfa does not tolerate saturated soils or wet conditions.
When planting alfalfa it is important to seed at the proper depth and density. Alfalfa seeds are small and should be planted shallow no more than 1/2 inch deep. Seeding too deep can lead to poor germination and seedling establishment.
Alfalfa should be seeded at a rate of 15 to 20 pounds per acre. This will provide adequate plant density for forage production and soil coverage.
Once alfalfa is established it will need to be mowed regularly to prevent it from going to seed. Mowing also stimulates new growth which is what you want for forage production. Alfalfa should be mowed every 21 to 28 days during the growing season.
Alfalfa can be a great addition to any deer management plan. It provides high-quality forage and can improve the soil. When managed properly alfalfa can be a valuable resource for both deer and landowners.
When is the best time to plant alfalfa for deer?
The best time to plant alfalfa for deer is in the fall after the first frost.
How often should you plant alfalfa for deer?
You should plant alfalfa for deer every three to four years.
What are the benefits of planting alfalfa for deer?
Planting alfalfa for deer provides them with a nutritious food source and can also help improve the soil quality in your hunting area.
How much alfalfa should you plant for deer?
You should plant about two pounds of alfalfa for deer per acre.
What is the best way to plant alfalfa for deer?
The best way to plant alfalfa for deer is to broadcast the seeds over the area you want to plant and then rake them into the soil.
How deep should you plant alfalfa seeds for deer?
You should plant alfalfa seeds for deer about one-quarter inch deep.
What is the best time of year to plant alfalfa for deer?
The best time of year to plant alfalfa for deer is in the fall after the first frost.
How long does it take for alfalfa to mature for deer?
It takes about 60 days for alfalfa to mature for deer.
What is the shelf life of alfalfa for deer?
The shelf life of alfalfa for deer is about three years.
How should you store alfalfa for deer?
You should store alfalfa for deer in a cool dry place.
What is the best way to prepare alfalfa for deer?
The best way to prepare alfalfa for deer is to mow it and then broadcast the seeds over the area you want to plant.
How often should you mow alfalfa for deer?
You should mow alfalfa for deer every two to three weeks.
What is the best fertilizer for alfalfa for deer?
The best fertilizer for alfalfa for deer is a 10-10-10 fertilizer.
How often should you fertilize alfalfa for deer?
You should fertilize alfalfa for deer every six to eight weeks.
What are the signs of alfalfa being ready for deer?
The leaves of the alfalfa plant will turn from green to yellow when it is ready for deer.
