Old Cobblers Farm™ Majestic Alfalfa

Majestic Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a premium perennial legume seed designed for high-yield forage production and soil enhancement. Renowned for its deep root system, high protein content, and excellent digestibility, it is ideal for livestock feed, hay production, and sustainable agriculture. Its advanced seed coatings enhance disease resistance and nutrient uptake, making it a reliable choice for farmers and gardeners seeking robust, eco-friendly crops.

Seed Type & Composition

• Seed Type: Perennial legume (alfalfa), not a grass.

• Key Features:

  • High pure live seed (PLS) for strong germination and vigor.

  • Deep roots improve soil aeration, water retention, and nitrogen fixation.

  • High protein and digestibility for livestock.

  • Coated seeds enhance disease resistance and nutrient uptake.

• Label Information (varies by supplier):

  • Purity %: Typically >95% alfalfa seeds.

  • Germination Rate %: Often >85% under optimal conditions.

  • Weed Seed %: Low, ideally <0.5%.

  • Other Crop Seed %: Minimal, typically <0.5%.

  • Inert Matter %: Low, often <2% (e.g., chaff, soil).

  • Lot Number: For batch tracking.

  • Origin: Region of seed production.

  • Test Date: Recent germination/purity test date.

  • Net Weight: Package weight.

  • Manufacturer: Contact details.

Geographic & USDA Zone Suitability

• Geographic Areas: U.S. (Midwest, Plains, Western states), Canada, Europe, Australia, and temperate regions globally.

• USDA Zones: 3–9; thrives in temperate climates with distinct seasons.

• Sunlight: Full sun required; does not tolerate partial shade well.

Soil Compatibility

• Soil Texture:

  • Loam: Ideal for balanced drainage, fertility, and moisture retention.

  • Clay: Tolerable with amendments for drainage.

  • Sandy: Suitable with irrigation and organic matter for moisture retention.

• pH Range: 6.5–7.5 (neutral to slightly alkaline); adjust with lime if needed.

• Drainage: Excellent drainage essential; sensitive to waterlogging and root rot.

Watering & Drought Requirements

• Establishment Phase: Light, frequent watering to keep soil moist; avoid waterlogging.

• Post-Establishment: Deep, infrequent watering; 1–1.5 inches/week (including rainfall).

• Drought Tolerance: High once established due to deep roots; may enter dormancy during prolonged drought but recovers with moisture.

• Tips: Water early morning or evening; mulch to retain moisture in dry conditions.

Germination & Growth Pattern

• Germination Time: 7–10 days at soil temperatures of 65°F–85°F (18°C–29°C).

• Growth Pattern:

  • Rapid establishment with deep root system for nutrient and water access.

  • Dense canopy of trifoliate leaves; perennial, regrowing annually for 3–5 years.

  • Multiple harvests per season (2–4 cuts) at 10% bloom stage.

  • Peak growth in spring/fall; slows in extreme heat or cold.

  • Ideal for hay, silage, grazing, and soil improvement.

Mowing & Maintenance

• Mowing/Harvesting:

  • Height: Cut at 2–3 inches at 10% bloom for optimal regrowth and nutrient content.

  • Frequency: 2–4 cuts per season, depending on climate and irrigation.

  • Equipment: Use sharp blades to avoid plant stress.

• Maintenance:

  • Watering: 1–1.5 inches/week; adjust for rainfall.

  • Fertilization: Apply phosphorus/potassium based on soil tests; minimal nitrogen due to fixation.

  • Weed Control: Dense canopy suppresses weeds; use pre-emergent herbicides if needed.

  • Pest/Disease: Monitor for aphids, weevils, Phytophthora root rot, Anthracnose; use integrated pest management.

  • Reseeding: Replant every 3–5 years as stand density declines.

  • Soil Health: Rotate crops to maintain soil fertility and reduce disease buildup.

Foot Traffic Durability & Recovery

• Durability: Low; not suited for high foot traffic due to forage focus.

• Recovery: Moderate; deep roots aid regrowth if traffic is minimal and recovery time is allowed.

• Management: Avoid heavy traffic; use in low-disturbance areas like pastures or hayfields; mix with grasses for durability in mixed stands.

Planting Time

• Optimal Timing: Early spring (March–May) or late summer/early fall (August–early September).

• Soil Temperature: 65°F–85°F for best germination.

• Benefits: Spring leverages rainfall; fall allows root establishment before winter dormancy.

Pest, Disease & Weed Resistance

• Pest Resistance: Strong against aphids, alfalfa weevils, leafhoppers; monitor for infestations.

• Disease Resistance: Robust against Phytophthora root rot, Anthracnose, Verticillium wilt; susceptible in poor drainage.

• Weed Resistance: Dense canopy suppresses weeds; early weed control enhances establishment.

• Management: Use coated seeds, proper irrigation, and soil health practices to boost resistance.