Alfalfa Should Weather Cold Snap

Farm Journal logo

The recent sub-zero temperatures across much of the Midwest and Northeast are of concern for alfalfa, especially since upwards of half the crop died last year due to winterkill.

"Alfalfa can survive temperatures of 10° to 15°F," says Dan Undersander, a forage agronomist with the University of Wisconsin.

"As little as 4 inches of loose snow will insulate against 16°F of air temperature," he says. "The crown [of the alfalfa plant] is insulated by soil as well. Therefore, the crucial temperature is the temperature at 2 to 4 inches below the soil surface.

As a result, soil temperatures at depths of 2 to 4 inches  covered by 4 inches or more of snow will generally still be at 28° to 32°F, Undersander says. "This situation should indicate little or no injury or kill of alfalfa from the recent cold snap," he says.

 

Latest News

Dairy Finances: Being Prepared For Tough Times Has Big Payback
Dairy Finances: Being Prepared For Tough Times Has Big Payback

If there’s any assurance about the economic picture for the dairy industry and agriculture in general going forward in the next few years, it’s that volatility will be a constant.

Who “Nose” When a Calf is Getting Sick?
Who “Nose” When a Calf is Getting Sick?

If you want to stay ahead of calf health and catch sickness in its earliest stage, University of Minnesota Graduate Student Abbigail Prins offers a handy detection tip.

How To Outline Clear Direction For Each Role On Your Team
How To Outline Clear Direction For Each Role On Your Team

“The single most important tool to predict peak performance is a very well-developed job description,” Dave Mitchell says.

Know Your Business Pressures, Trends And Actions For Big Breakthroughs
Know Your Business Pressures, Trends And Actions For Big Breakthroughs

Mark Faust outlines a simple formula to improve profitability and create more value for you and the customer.

Robotic Technology Helps These Dairies Become Better
Robotic Technology Helps These Dairies Become Better

Smart farming robotic technology is all in the name of cow comfort, efficiency and productivity. 

Milk Prices Continue to Fizzle Out
Milk Prices Continue to Fizzle Out

A wild week in milk markets finished on a fizzle.