DLF Instinct Alfalfa Seed 55lbs | Single-Cut Variety

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

Maximize forage production in single-cut hay systems with Instinct, a reliable, time-tested alfalfa variety specifically suited for operations where weather, location, or management practices favor one large harvest per year rather than multiple cuttings.

Key Features & Benefits:

• Single-Cut Optimized: Specifically suited for locations and climates where weather conditions permit only one major hay crop per year
• 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 Performance: Time-tested variety with years of reliable performance in Western Canada and similar climates
• Good Value: Economical choice for single-cut systems where newer multi-cut varieties may not provide additional benefit
• 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, extending forage availability

Ideal For:

• Single-cut hay operations in short-season or challenging climates
• Mixed grass-alfalfa stands for silage production
• Dry hay production with one major cutting per year
• Winter grazing programs after hard frost
• Operations seeking economical, proven alfalfa genetics
• Locations where weather limits multiple cuttings
• Beef cattle forage systems
• Mixed hay for horses and livestock

Why Choose Instinct?

Not every operation needs the latest multi-cut alfalfa variety. If your location, climate, or management system only allows for one major cutting per year, Instinct provides proven performance at excellent value. We've sold Instinct successfully for many years to producers who appreciate its reliability in single-cut systems and its compatibility with grass species. When mixed with grasses like orchardgrass, brome, timothy, or fescue, Instinct provides the nitrogen-fixing benefits of alfalfa while the grasses add yield, structure, and balanced nutrition to your forage.

Perfect Grass Companions:

Instinct works exceptionally well when mixed with:

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

Typical 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

Single-Cut Management:

Single-cut systems differ from multi-cut management:

• Timing: Harvest when alfalfa reaches 10-20% bloom and grasses are at optimal maturity (typically late June to early July in most regions)
• Yield: One large cutting produces 3-6 tons per acre depending on growing conditions
• Quality: Slightly lower protein than early-cut multi-cut systems, but excellent energy and balanced nutrition
• Regrowth: Aftermath can be grazed in fall or left for winter protection
• Stand Life: Reduced cutting frequency can extend stand life in some situations

Winter Grazing Benefits:

After hard frost has killed the alfalfa tops and minimized bloat risk, Instinct stands can provide valuable winter grazing:

• Extends grazing season into late fall and early winter
• Reduces hay feeding costs
• Provides high-quality forage when other pastures are dormant
• Bloat risk is minimal after hard frost kills plant cells
• Works well in rotational grazing systems

Planting Guidelines:

• Seeding Rate (Pure Stand): 15-20 lbs per acre
• Seeding Rate (With Grass): 8-15 lbs alfalfa + 8-15 lbs grass per acre
• Best Planting Time:
  • Spring: After last frost when soil reaches 50°F (10°C)
  • 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 10-20% bloom for 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
• Weed Control: Use labeled herbicides as needed; healthy stands suppress most weeds

Silage Production:

Instinct works exceptionally well in grass-alfalfa silage mixtures:

• Harvest at 30-35% dry matter for optimal ensiling
• Alfalfa adds protein and nitrogen to the mix
• Grasses provide structure and fermentable carbohydrates
• Balanced nutrition for beef and dairy cattle
• Good fermentation characteristics in mixture

Expected Performance:

• Establishment: Good germination and seedling vigor
• First Year Yield: 2-4 tons per acre (depending on planting date)
• Mature Stand Yield: 3-6 tons per acre in single-cut system
• Stand Life: 4-6 years with proper management
• Forage Quality: Good protein and energy for livestock

Nutritional Value (Single-Cut Harvest):

• Crude Protein: 15-18% (when cut at 10-20% bloom)
• Energy: Good TDN (Total Digestible Nutrients)
• Fiber: Moderate - provides good rumen fill
• Palatability: Good - livestock readily consume mixed hay
• Ideal for: Beef cattle, dairy heifers, 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 Pickseed, a global leader in forage breeding and seed production. While Instinct is an older variety, it continues to provide reliable, economical performance for single-cut hay systems where newer multi-cut varieties may not offer additional advantages.

Specifications: