By DAVID TOWNSEND
Planting depth caused poor emergence in Alistair’s alfalfa.
To be more specific, the seed was planted too deeply. Alfalfa must be planted in the top quarter-inch of soil for a successful stand.
You must pay particular attention to your field conditions at planting in order to get seed this shallow. A quick and easy test is that your heel shouldn’t sink more than 3/8 of an inch into the seedbed. Another key to alfalfa establishment is that you pack, plant and pack again.