Year-Round IPM Program Pages
Planting and Establishing a Stand
This year-round program covers the major pests of planting and establishing a stand of alfalfa hay in California. For established stands of alfalfa hay, see Established Stands.
About Growth to first cutting
- Special issues of concern related to water quality: drift, runoff due to rain, irrigation.
What should you be doing during this time?
Look for signs of weevils, such as chewed leaves.
- Manage if needed according to the Pest Management Guidelines.
Monitor aphids and their natural enemies.
- Keep records on an aphid monitoring form .
- Manage if needed according to the Pest Management Guidelines.
Monitor soil moisture regularly.
Survey weeds to plan weed management strategy.
- Keep records on a weed survey form .
- Apply a postemergence herbicide, if needed according to the Pest Management Guidelines.
Time first cutting carefully to maintain stand vigor.
- Make sure rooting depth is at least 12–18 inches and the crown is formed.
- Generally, delayed first cuttings are recommended to assure proper rooting depth.
- Check soil moisture status, considering compaction by heavy equipment; high moisture conditions can compact soils.
Identify other diseases you may see.
- Common leaf spot and other leafspot diseases
- Downy mildew
- Sclerotinia stem and crown rot (white mold)