DLF Instinct Alfalfa Seed 55lbs - Multi-Cut Variety for Premium Forage

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DLF Instinct Alfalfa - Proven Multi-Cut Variety for Grass Mixtures

Maximize forage production with Instinct, a reliable, time-tested alfalfa variety specifically suited for multi-cut hay systems and grass mixtures. Ideal for operations seeking proven performance and excellent value in mixed forage stands.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Multi-Cut Performance: Optimized for multiple harvests per season in favorable growing conditions
• Excellent Grass Companion: Works exceptionally well in mixtures with orchardgrass, bromegrass, timothy, and fescue for balanced forage production
• Versatile Applications: Ideal for silage, dry hay, and winter grazing once hard frost has minimized bloat risk
• Proven Genetics: Time-tested variety with years of reliable performance in Western Canada and similar climates
• Economical Choice: Excellent value for mixed forage systems
• Nitrogen Fixation: Naturally fixes atmospheric nitrogen, improving soil health and reducing fertilizer costs for companion grasses
• Winter Grazing Option: Can be grazed after hard frost when bloat conditions are minimized

Ideal For:

• Multi-cut hay operations in favorable climates
• Mixed grass-alfalfa stands for silage production
• Dry hay production with multiple cuttings per year
• Winter grazing programs after hard frost
• Operations seeking economical, proven alfalfa genetics
• Beef cattle and dairy forage systems
• Mixed hay for horses and livestock

Perfect Grass Companions:

• Orchardgrass: High yield, palatability, and complements alfalfa's growth pattern
• Meadow Bromegrass: Adds bulk, structure, and extends grazing season
• Timothy: Premium hay grass for horse hay and dairy operations
• Fescue: Adds persistence, drought tolerance, and year-round grazing potential

Seeding Rates for Mixtures:

• Alfalfa-Grass Hay Mix: 8-12 lbs Instinct + 8-12 lbs grass per acre
• Alfalfa-Grass Pasture: 10-15 lbs Instinct + 10-15 lbs grass per acre
• Silage Mix: 10-12 lbs Instinct + 10-15 lbs grass per acre
• Pure Stand: 15-20 lbs per acre

Planting Guidelines:

• Best Planting Time: Spring after last frost when soil reaches 50°F (10°C), or late summer 6-8 weeks before first fall frost
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained soils with pH 6.5-7.5 optimal
• Depth: Plant 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep (shallow seeding is critical)
• Inoculation: Use fresh Rhizobium inoculant for optimal nitrogen fixation
• Fertility: Requires adequate phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur; soil test before planting

Management Tips:

• First Year: Take light first cutting to allow stand establishment
• Harvest Timing: Cut when alfalfa reaches 10% bloom for optimal balance of yield and quality
• Stubble Height: Maintain 3-4 inch stubble to protect crowns
• Fall Management: Can graze aftermath after hard frost or leave for winter protection
• Fertility: Apply phosphorus and potassium based on soil tests; alfalfa fixes its own nitrogen

Expected Performance:

• Establishment: Good germination and seedling vigor
• First Year Yield: 2-4 tons per acre (depending on planting date)
• Mature Stand Yield: 4-7 tons per acre in multi-cut system
• Stand Life: 4-6 years with proper management
• Forage Quality: Excellent protein and energy for livestock

Nutritional Value:

• Crude Protein: 18-22% (when cut at 10% bloom)
• Energy: High TDN (Total Digestible Nutrients)
• Palatability: Excellent - livestock readily consume mixed hay
• Ideal for: Beef cattle, dairy cattle, horses, sheep, and goats

Soil Health Benefits:

• Fixes 150-200 lbs of nitrogen per acre annually
• Improves soil structure with deep tap root
• Adds organic matter when stand is terminated
• Excellent rotation crop for cereals and other crops
• Reduces nitrogen fertilizer needs for companion grasses

DLF Instinct Alfalfa is a product of DLF, a global leader in forage breeding and seed production. Instinct provides reliable, economic performance for multi-cut hay systems and mixed forage stands.

Package Size: 55 lbs