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The Dormancy Rating (DR) scale is the most critical factor for selecting alfalfa seed, indicating how the plant responds to cold weather and short daylight hours. The scale typically ranges from 1 (Most Dormant) to 11 (Non-Dormant).
Description: These varieties continue to grow later into the fall and break dormancy very early in the spring. They are highly productive year-round but have little winter hardiness. Best For: Warm, southern climates (e.g., California, Arizona) where continuous growth is desired.
Description: The most popular type. These varieties slow or stop growth in the fall to prepare for winter, providing excellent winter survival while maintaining high-yield potential during the growing season. Best For: Temperate regions and the Upper Midwest, offering the best balance of yield and persistence.
Description: Varieties that stop growing early in the fall and remain completely dormant until spring. They exhibit maximum winter hardiness but typically offer one less cutting per season than semi-dormant types. Best For: Very cold regions and the Northern Great Plains (e.g., Montana, North Dakota).
Modern breeding has developed varieties with enhanced traits to combat common field challenges.
Trait: Genetically modified to contain less lignin (the indigestible fiber in the cell wall).
Benefit: Allows for a wider harvest window and provides greater digestibility, leading to higher animal performance (milk/weight gain) without sacrificing yield.
Trait: Bred for specific resistance to common regional threats like the Potato Leafhopper (PLH), Aphanomyces Root Rot (ARR), and various Nematodes.
Benefit: Provides persistence and higher reliable yields by minimizing plant damage and stand loss. Look for varieties rated R (Resistant) or HR (Highly Resistant).
Trait: Developed to perform better in soils with high concentrations of dissolved salts.
Benefit: Expands the viable acreage for alfalfa production in arid or irrigated regions prone to salinity issues.
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