Wholesale Alfalfa

01.
A Bit of Botany

a bit of botanical information on alfalfa

description
The alfalfa plant is perennial member of the Fabaceae Family (Pea Family). On this plant, new growth rises each year from the crown. Stems reach to 3 feet, and 5 to 25 stems may rise from a single crown. The pinnate trifoliate leaves are arranged alternately on the stems. It has bluish-purple or yellowish flowers that grow from the tall, smooth stem. The seed pods appear spiraled. The taproot is very long and tough, allowing the plant to survive dry weather. Alfalfa is often used during crop rotation.

common names
& nomenclature
The name Alfalfa comes from the Arabic al-fac-facah, which means "Father of all Foods" and "The King of Plants."

Also known as:
chilean clover, father of all foods, buffalo grass, buffalo herb, mu-su, purple medic, and lucerne

02.
Where in the World

habitat and range for alfalfa

The alfalfa plant grows in the wild in large parts of Asia, in continental Europe, and in areas of North Africa, the alfalfa is found native in open meadows and other open and cultivated areas. Also cultivated in many countries with temperate climates.

03.
Cultivation & Harvesting

considerations for growing alfalfa

climate
Alfalfa is widely cultivated throughout the world in temperate climates. Alfalfa prefers full sun and tolerates droughts well.

soil
Alfalfa is an easy grower and will tolerate most soil types, preferably loamy soil.

growing
Seeds are usually sown in autumn. Prepare the soil with manure and rock phosphate. Young plants require regular watering, but once established, they become fairly drought tolerant.

harvesting
Harvest Alfalfa in the summer when the growth has reached 1-3 feet in height.

preserving
Alfalfa should be stored in a dark, dry, and cool place.

04.
The Rest of the Story

alfalfa history, folklore, literature & more

Most of alfalfa's ancient uses have long been disapproved, but modern scientists may have discovered potential that our ancestors never dreamed of.

Alfalfa was widely found growing in the wild throughout the Middle East in meadows, and eventually cultivated by communities often to feed horses, livestock and other domesticated animals. It was known to be a drought-tolerant plant that could survive bouts of extreme cold as well.