The Best Kind of Fertilizer for Alfalfa

Fertilizer

• The legume utilizes extensive levels of nutrients from the soil and hence has high fertilizer and lime requirement. It is best to conduct a soil test to determine exact nutrient requirement. The recommended soil pH is 6.5 to 7. The best fertilizer is one that is especially rich in potassium. The plant obtains all other nutrients, including nitrogen, from the air and soil.

Importance of Potassium

• Potassium is important to support optimal alfalfa growth and it is required in more amount than any other nutrient, according to the University of Wisconsin Extension. The nutrient improves quality and yield of forage and increases resistance to disease. Potassium also improves the ability of the legume to survive the winter.

Source

• A number of sources are used to supply potassium to alfalfa, the most economical and easily available of which is potassium chloride. Apply the fertilizer to the crop in early spring at the time of greening and as a top dressing after the first cutting.