G95-1254 Weed Control in Alfalfa

This NebGuide describes how weeds can be controlled in alfalfa. Weeds can interfere with alfalfa from the time of seeding through the life of the crop. Increased weed density in new seedings of alfalfa can decrease alfalfa stand. Weeds can also substantially reduce yield and quality of established alfalfa. In severe situations alfalfa yield can be reduced over 50 percent from weed competition (Figure 1). As weed content increases, the percentage of alfalfa in forage declines. Normally the quality of forage declines as the percentage of weeds increases