Grow only varieties with at least moderate resistance to bacterial wilt. Use varieties with higher resistance levels in fields where the disease has been diagnosed. Cut alfalfa only when foliage is dry. Rotate away from alfalfa for at least two years. Annual Kentucky Alfalfa Variety Test Report, Progress Report 351.
Crown rot fungi often infect through wounds.
Stresses such as poor fertility, insect damage, untimely harvests, and severe winter conditions or spring freezes can predispose plants to infection. Some fungi do not attack alfalfa except as invaders of wounded, stressed crowns. Others also cause other diseases, such as anthracnose and spring black stem. Breeding for resistance is very difficult since so many fungi can cause the disease. Use varieties with a history of good performance in UK alfalfa variety trials.