Variety Selection

In California, alfalfa varieties are tested over a wide range of environments, from 3-cut systems (dormant varieties) in the North, to 9 cut systems (non-dormant varieties) in the South. We grow varieties from very heavy to very light soils.

The Alfalfa Acreages Map on the alfalfa homepage illustrates areas where alfalfa is grown in California.

Alfalfa growers need to select alfalfa varieties based on yield and quality performance in their specific region. The varieties best suited for the high elevation intermountain valleys of northeastern California are different from the varieties adapted to the warmer, longer-season production areas in the remainder of the state. After choosing varieties with growth characteristics and pest and disease resistances suitable for your area, plant test strips to check their performance under specific field and management conditions. Time and money spent on selecting the most suitable variety will be rewarded with higher yields and a net increase in profits.