What is Lucerne Hay?
Lucerne hay, also known as alfalfa hay, is a highly nutritious forage that is commonly used as a feed for livestock such as horses, cattle, and goats. The plant is a member of the pea family and is native to the Mediterranean region, but it is now widely cultivated around the world.
Lucerne hay is known for its high protein content, which can range from 12 to 20 percent, and its high digestibility, which makes it an excellent choice for animals that need to maintain a healthy weight and muscle mass.
Lucerne Hay Suppliers In South Africa
How much is lucerne in South Africa?
The current market price for Lucerne Hay grade 1 is R1 800/ton.
Where is lucerne grown in South Africa?
Lucerne, a perennial summer legume, is well adapted to almost all areas of South Africa, but prefers deep, well-drained soils with a neutral to high pH. On Bloudrif, approximately 180ha are planted to lucerne, irrigated by 10 pivots that each cover between 10ha and 35ha.
How much lucerne do you get per hectare?
A rain-fed lucerne pasture produces between 4-8 tonnes (t) of dry matter per hectare per year (DM/ha/yr) which is similar to annual pasture, but production is spread more evenly over the year.
What is the yield of lucerne per hectare in South Africa?
Lucerne can produce high yields from 18-30 tons of dry matter per ha per season when properly irrigated and given enough fertilizer. It uses 21kg K, 13kg Ca, 2.7kg Mg, 2.7kg P, 2.7kg S and 25-30kg N to produce 1ton dry matter. Optimum Planting Date for Lucerne is from February to May.
How long does lucerne last?
Lucerne may live for up to 20 years, although the life of an average stand is closer to five years. As swards age, inappropriate cutting or grazing management, weeds, disease and insects take their toll and the plant’s survival declines.