Most commonly used as an animal feed, alfalfa is a highly nutritious lugume and natural medicine. Alfalfa is usually eaten in the form of sprouts, however the leaves and flowers of fresh plants are a far better source of healthy properties. Growing alfalfa in your own garden is simple, and offers a fresh, daily supply of this healing food.

Ideal Site- Alfalfa grows best on a sunny site that is slightly sloped and well drained. The soil should be fine, free of rock and weeds. Prior to planting prepare the site with an low to medium soil improver and an organic fertilizer rich in potassium and phosphorus. The ideal soil pH is 6.5-7.5

Seed to Harvest- approx. 70 days.

Cultivation- it is best to purchase high quality organic alfalfa seeds if possible. Alfalfa is often mixed with several types of grasses so be careful when selecting seed. The crop can be frost tolerant and can be generally planted in April and again in August. Station sow seeds in a selected area of your garden. This crop roots quickly so you do not have to plant the seeds too deeply, no more than 1/4in (50mm). Alfalfa grows 2-3ft (60-90cm). Be sure to plan accordingly.
 
 

Plant Care- Alfalfa is quite tolerant once established. It is important that the site is well drained. Saturated conditions can cause the crop to become more susceptible to diseases and pests. Keep the area well weeded, especially when the plants are young.
 
 

Harvesting- Cut plants when 2 to 3ft (60-90cm) tall or after about 70 days. A second crop can be planted again in August in most locations.

Problems- weevils, waterlogging, and root rot, particularly in wet conditions.

Nutrients- Alfalfa is one of the most nutritious vegetables It contains vitamins A,C, D, E.K,U,B1,B2,B6,B12, Niacin, Biotin, Molybdenum, Folic Acid, Panthothanic Acid, Inocitole, the minerals Calcium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Chlorine, Sodium, Sulfur, Copper, Magnesium, Manganese, Iron, Cobalt, Boron , and trace elements Nickel, Lead, Palladium, and Strontium