If grazing is done in the fall, it should be controlled so that the stand is lightly grazed. That way, photosynthesis is still allowed to occur and energy reserves continue to accumulate in the plants. Rotate animals more often or reduce stocking rates to accomplish leaving 6 to 8 inches of actively growing top growth during the fall period. With top grazing, animals will be consuming lush, high-quality forage. Precautions against bloat are even more important than when the whole plant is being grazed.
Anytime alfalfa is grazed, especially during the fall, make sure soils and dry and firm.
Grazing alfalfa on soft and wet soils is a recipe for severe damage to crowns and subsequent stand loss over winter. Frosted and frozen alfalfa does not contain toxic compounds. However, a slightly higher potential may exist for bloat one or two days after a frost or freeze. To manage bloat, wait for the forage to begin drying a few days after a killing freeze. Always use good bloat management practices whenever alfalfa is being grazed.