Legumes serve as soil builders by improving soil tilth. An important characteristic of all legumes is their ability to fix nitrogen if inoculated with the correct rhizobium before seeding. Generally they are used in mixtures with grasses to reduce bloat hazard. Mixtures of legumes and grasses may be necessary on soils with wide variations in textures and slope to allow for establishment under varied conditions. Grasses produce the major portion of their growth early in the season, usually permitting only one cutting.
Pure alfalfa stands usually result in higher hay yields.
Like most important decisions, forage selection requires that you do your homework first. Well-informed, careful planning will help prevent costly mistakes and unsatisfactory results. For more information on forage selection, contact the PFRA office in your district.