Plants used for livestock feed are usually cut prior to or just at bloom, when the nutritional content is at its maximum. This is particulary true of the alfalfas. In Florida, Alfalfa 77 is a quality forage and reports here at the Unversity indicate good bee activity, but it usually is harvested right at bloom time. Two varieties recommended are Hubam and Floreana. Hairy indigo appears to be an excellent plant as well.
Farmers appear to have differing opinions on the plant.
Some see it as a weed. Others use it as green manure, hay silage or for direct grazing. It requires little care or capital input with a relatively high return of quality forage and eventual gains in animal weight. Many producers use the plant to achieve a natural, annual reseeding stand on dry, infertile, deep sandy soils. Informal reports indicate bees visit hairy indigo, however, no complete studies of its nectar secreting abilities are available.