This time allows alfalfa to store food reserves in roots and crowns, and increase winter-hardiness. Age of Stand Older stands are more at risk of winter kill than younger stands. Varieties Some varieties are more winter hardy than others. Generally, variegated type varieties are more winter hardy than flemish types. Most Manitoba soils have adequate potassium.
Sandy soils are most likely to be deficient.
Soil Moisture Alfalfa on wet soils during winter is more prone to winter kill than on dryer soils. Winter-injured stands will show signs of yellowing, slow growth, and few stems per plant. Stands may recover if the first cut is delayed until near maturity.