Premier Co-op
Overcrowding
After nearly a decade in this role, it is not often a question of “if” herds are overcrowding, but more so “how much”? There are a ton of factors to consider whe...
Mar 31, 2026
Summer Alfalfa
Aug 01, 2025
Don't Count Out Summer-Seeding Your Alfalfa
If spring weather got in the way of planting your alfalfa, you're not out of luck yet. Summer seeding is still a solid option and it comes with some real advantages when done right.
Timing is everything.
Why consider summer seeding?
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Better workload balance. Summer alfalfa fits well between cereal crops and manure applications.
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Less soil disease pressure. Warm, drier soils are typically better for germination and establishment.
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Stronger first-year yields. Fall-seeded alfalfa hits the ground running in year one.
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Lower insect pressure. By late summer, pests like potato leafhoppers start to decline.
Get it off to strong start:
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Check soil pH (ideal is 6.8-7.2) and make sure fertility is where it needs to be.
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Seed depth matters. Go 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep using a grain drill.
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Use treated seed to boost early root development.
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Control weeds. Summer weeds rob moisture fast, and seedlings can't afford the competition.
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Watch for herbicide carryover from earlier crops. Some products hang around for months.
The biggest thing: don't wait too long. Alfalfa needs time to build roots and transition to a perennial before cold sets in. A little planning now could set you up for a stronger stand and fewer headaches next spring.
Want help figuring out if it's the right move for your acres? Reach out to your Premier Agronomist; they are happy to talk through your plan.
*This article was provided to us by Winfield United*
