More
information on alfalfa. Use the back button to return
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Our laboratory has research programs
which are aimed at
improving the efficiency of alfalfa production by:
1. The development of improved
germplasm
Dr. T. Austin
Campbell
2. The study of cytogenetics
and analysis of annual medics
Dr. Gary Bauchan
3. The investigation of
fungal pathogens
Dr. Nichole O'Neill
Alfalfa
is the fourth most widely grown crop in the United States, with an estimated
annual value of 11.7 billion dollars. There are 26 million acres cut for hay
with an average yield of 2.3 tons per acre. One of the most important characteristics
of alfalfa is its high nutritional quality. Alfalfa contains between 15 to 22%
crude protein as well as high amounts of 10 different vitamins. Alfalfa can
be a very productive crop with high levels of biomass accumulation. The record
yield of one acre of alfalfa is 10 tons. Alfalfa hay is used as a feed primarily
for dairy cows but also for horses, beef cattle, sheep, and other farm animals.
