Publication Date
1997
Description
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seed production has become an important diversified cropping option for western Canadian producers covering approximately 60,000 ha. The objective of this research was to conduct and interpret a survey of Manitoba alfalfa seed producers from 1992 to 1995. Approximately 1/4 of producers completed the survey with questions ranging from seed yield to crop management practices. The 1992 and 1993 production seasons were characterized by below average temperatures and above average precipitation (historical records) which dramatically affected plant growth, reduced leafcutter bee activity and resulted in an average seed yield of 25 kg/ha. The 1994 and 1995 production seasons were closer to normal (319 kg/ha), but geographic location and management practices were important factors determining final yield. The results of this survey showed that weather conditions can sometimes be marginal for alfalfa seed production in western Canada, but alfalfa seed continues to be an economically viable crop.
Citation
Smith, S R. Jr; Katepa-Mupondwa, F M.; and Huebner, G, "Alfalfa Seed Production Under Marginal Environmental Conditions" (2024). IGC Proceedings (1993-2023). 18.
https://uknowledge.uky.edu/igc/1997/session25/18
Included in
Agricultural Science Commons, Agronomy and Crop Sciences Commons, Plant Biology Commons, Plant Pathology Commons, Soil Science Commons, Weed Science Commons
Alfalfa Seed Production Under Marginal Environmental Conditions
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seed production has become an important diversified cropping option for western Canadian producers covering approximately 60,000 ha. The objective of this research was to conduct and interpret a survey of Manitoba alfalfa seed producers from 1992 to 1995. Approximately 1/4 of producers completed the survey with questions ranging from seed yield to crop management practices. The 1992 and 1993 production seasons were characterized by below average temperatures and above average precipitation (historical records) which dramatically affected plant growth, reduced leafcutter bee activity and resulted in an average seed yield of 25 kg/ha. The 1994 and 1995 production seasons were closer to normal (319 kg/ha), but geographic location and management practices were important factors determining final yield. The results of this survey showed that weather conditions can sometimes be marginal for alfalfa seed production in western Canada, but alfalfa seed continues to be an economically viable crop.
