What harvesting condition is most crucial for high-quality alfalfa forage?

Harvesting at the late bud stage is considered the most crucial condition for high-quality alfalfa forage because it balances the nutritional value and yield potential of the crop. At the late bud stage, alfalfa has not yet begun to flower, which means that the stem and leaves are still rich in protein and digestible fiber. This stage allows for maximum nutrient density, which is critical for livestock feed.

Harvesting too early, such as at the early bloom stage, may result in lower yields and insufficient development of the plant, impacting its potential as forage. On the other hand, harvesting in late spring could yield alfalfa that is maturing too much, which can reduce its overall quality and increase the likelihood of lignification, making it harder for animals to digest.

While harvesting at any time during the summer may still produce forage, it often leads to a decrease in quality as the plant advances through its life cycle. Therefore, the late bud stage is ideal for ensuring both high protein content and optimal forage quality for feeding livestock.