Beckman shares ways to utilize late fall alfalfa

Harvesting alfalfa this late in the season, either mechanically or with livestock, is typically safe from a plant’s perspective. We are past the point where alfalfa plants will have any significant regrowth, which would deplete the reserves already stored for overwintering. Removal of any lasting stubble can have some negative consequences on the crown though. The ability for snow to be trapped on the field, insulating the crown from temperature extremes, preventing desiccation, and providing some moisture in the spring should not be overlooked lightly.