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Vegetables

Alfalfa Sprouts

Medicago sativa

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a perennial flowering plant in the legume family, known for its high protein content and ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. It is widely used as forage for livestock and is valued for its nutritional benefits, including vitamins and minerals. Alfalfa sprouts are the young shoots of the plant, rich in antioxidants and beneficial enzymes, making them popular in salads and health foods.

Calculate System for Alfalfa Sprouts
400.00–600.00mm
Water Need
120 days
Season
30.00–60.00cm
Root Depth
25,000 kg/ha
Yield
20,000
Plants/ha

Growth Stages

Season: Mar – Aug (120 days)

Initial
Kc 0.400
30 days
Development
Kc 0.700
40 days
Mid-Season
Kc 1.000
60 days
Late
Kc 0.800
30 days

Alfalfa can be grown in various climates but thrives in well-drained soils. It has several varieties, including 'Ladino' and 'Ranger', which differ in growth habit and disease resistance.

Water Requirements

Season Total: 400.00600.00 mm
Water Stress Sensitivity: High
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Water Productivity: 15.500 kg/m³

Recommended Methods

Drip Irrigation90.00%Fixed Sprinkler70.00%

Soil Compatibility

Optimal pH range: 6.0 – 7.5

Sandy Loam
AWC100.00mm/m
Drainagegood
Drainage: Well-drained soils preferred
Organic Matter: 2.00%
Soil should be tested for pH and nutrient levels before planting. Incorporating organic matter can improve soil structure and fertility.

Climate Compatibility

Temperature range: 15.0°C – 30.0°C

Temperate Continental
ETo: 1.006.00 mm/day
Temp: -20.0°C – 30.0°C
Frost: high
Mediterranean
ETo: 3.007.00 mm/day
Temp: 5.0°C – 35.0°C
Frost: low
Frost Tolerance: Low frost tolerance
Heat Tolerance: Moderate heat tolerance
Alfalfa is sensitive to frost, especially during early growth stages. In hotter climates, provide some shade during peak temperatures.

Planting Layout

100.00cm
Row Spacing
50.00cm
Plant Spacing
20,000
Plants per ha

Nutrient Requirements (kg/ha)

Nitrogen (N)150 kg/ha
Phosphorus (P)60 kg/ha
Potassium (K)180 kg/ha
40
Calcium (Ca) kg/ha
25
Magnesium (Mg) kg/ha
20
Sulfur (S) kg/ha
Schedule: Apply nitrogen in 3 splits during growing season
Organic Matter: 2-3% organic matter recommended

Yield Information

25,000
kg/ha
2.500
kg/plant
0.450
Harvest Index
Quality Factors: Size, color, sugar content

Design Your Alfalfa Sprouts Irrigation System

Use our free calculators to plan water requirements, spacing, and system costs for your Alfalfa Sprouts field.

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Related Guides

Introduction to Growing and Irrigating Alfalfa Sprouts

Alfalfa sprouts are a popular and nutritious crop that can be grown all year round. They are known for their high nutritional value and are often used in salads, sandwiches and other dishes. In this article, we will discuss how to grow and irrigate alfalfa sprouts in the most economically efficient ways. Why Alfalfa…

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