Effects of growth-stage-based alfalfa harvest on weed encroachment and resultant quality

Growth-stage-based alfalfa harvest treatments were imposed on a 2-yr-old Beaver alfalfa stand in 1992 to determine the effect of harvest treatments on yield and quality. By 1993, alfalfa cut at the vegetative stage or prebud stage contained 25% dandelions by weight. At these stages weeds lowered crude protein content in the total forage relative to pure alfalfa. Weed contents were similar and less than 1% by weight in forage cut at prebloom and later stages. Crude protein and fibre contents were similar in total forage and pure alfalfa at prebloom and later stages.