Science · Turfgrasses
Alfalfa
Deep-rooted forage crop requiring harvest management rather than repeated lawn-height mowing.
Medicago sativa · Perennial forage legume, not turfgrass
Profile
- Symbiosis
- Compatible rhizobia fix nitrogen
- Roots
- Deep taproot where soil permits
- Soil
- Prefers well-drained soil with appropriate pH and fertility
- Harvest
- Allow regrowth and crown reserve replenishment
Water & soil targets
- Moisture (VWC)
- Site-calibrated; measure field capacity and dry-down
- Salinity tolerance
- Moderate; establishment is more sensitive
- Drought tolerance
- Good once deeply rooted; yield falls under deficit
Optimal root measurement depth
6–12 in
Taproots run far deeper; read the upper active zone where most water uptake happens. Typical guidance; confirm with a soil probe on site.
Calibrate sensors in the actual root zone; account for mowing, rooting depth, seasonal growth and drainage before adjusting irrigation.
Problems to watch
- Phytophthora root rot
- Alfalfa weevil
- Crown damage
Stress signs
- Wilting on wet soil
- Skeletonized leaves
- Thin stands with damaged crowns
Where you'll find it
- Hay production
- Managed forage rotations
More turfgrasses
All Science profilesGeneral agronomic guidance and typical ranges; actual targets vary by site, soil, climate and season.