By Scout Nelson
Many parts of Nebraska have received much less snow than usual this winter. Snow totals are well below average in both eastern and western areas. This lack of snow can create challenges for alfalfa fields when colder temperatures arrive.
A snow layer of about four inches normally acts as insulation. It protects alfalfa plants and soil from sudden and extreme cold. Without this cover, alfalfa crowns are exposed to freezing air and rapid temperature drops. These conditions can increase the risk of winterkill. Winter injury is often easier to see in spring once plants begin to green up and produce new growth.
Some areas facing drought may experience slightly lower winterkill risk. Dry soils can help alfalfa plants harden properly before winter. Fields with good drainage or lower soil moisture often allow plants to lose excess moisture more easily, which can improve winter survival. However, long periods of mild winter weather can still be harmful. Warm temperatures may cause alfalfa to break dormancy early, making plants more vulnerable if cold weather returns.
Planning a new alfalfa stand also requires careful variety of selection. Choosing the right variety can improve yield, forage quality, pest resistance, and how long the stand remains productive. Key traits to review include winter survival ratings, fall dormancy scores, disease and insect resistance, persistence, and yield potential.
Winter survival and fall dormancy ratings help predict how well a variety handles cold and how quickly it regrows. For most Nebraska, winter survival ratings of three or four and fall dormancy ratings of three or four provide a good balance between yield and hardiness. Northern areas may benefit from varieties with greater winter tolerance.
Disease and insect resistance should match field history. Selecting resistant varieties can reduce crop stress and lower the need for chemical treatments. Persistence is also important. Shorter stand goals may focus on yield, while longer stand goals often require stronger winter hardiness.
More guidance on alfalfa management and variety selection is available through Nebraska Extension resources at https://extension.unl.edu
Photo Credit: gettyimages-0shut
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Hay & Forage, Alfalfa, Weather