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 Be aver 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 cru de protein content in the total forage relative to pure alfalfa. Weed conte nts were similar and less than 1% by weight in forage cut at prebloom and l ater stages. Crude protein and fibre contents were similar in total forage and pure alfalfa at prebloom and later stages.