Alfalfa
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa), is a perennial plant that belongs to the legume family. It is mainly grown as livestock feed due to its high nutritional value, particularly its high protein content (18-20%). It is also used as a cover crop to improve soil quality through deep, intensive rooting.
Alfalfa is capable of fixing nitrogen from the air, which benefits soil fertility. It is also valued for its ability to thrive in dry conditions, making it a robust crop.
Alfalfa contributes to producing a large amount of protein from local sources, reducing the dependence on purchasing protein-rich feed and lowering the cost of milk production.
Vandinter Semo offers various varieties in its portfolio. Inquire about the possibilities.
Alfalfa Varieties
Cerience is the number 1 Alfalfa breeder in Europe and has many varieties at the top of the recommended varieties list. Below is the range of varieties available for the Netherlands. The seeds are treated with S.A.S. Ready, a specific rhizobium coating that ensures stable crop development.
How it al started...
Vandinter Semo introduced the Dutch livestock farming sector to the unique qualities of English ryegrass AberGain four years ago. High Sugar has become a household name. The breeding program has also been successful in white and red clovers. The newest clover varieties are now also available at Vandinter Semo.
Using clovers is a good way to increase the protein content in forage. Additionally, clovers enhance the palatability of the grass.
Clover is a leguminous plant that fixes nitrogen from the air, reducing the need for nitrogen fertilization. This fits perfectly into the current Dutch nitrogen situation and also serves as part of circular agriculture.
White Clover
MELITAL is a white clover with an average leaf size and tall upright growth, making it suitable for mowing and grazing. Our variety holds a top position on the Dutch variety list with excellent average scores.
Red clover
Red clover is best grown as part of a grass/clover sward. The development of more grazing tolerant and persistent varieties is creating the potential for red clover in rotational grazing systems, and it also has value as a break crop that improves soil structure and fertility.
• Suitable for a range of systems, yields well under grazing and conservation
• Semi-upright growth habit
• Lower levels of formononetin (oestrogen)
A unique red clover variety is the AberClaret (Diploid), which has a lifespan of 4 to 5 years (whereas red clovers typically live 2-3 years) and exhibits a high yield capacity.
