Reports indicate widespread alfalfa winterkill due to several thaws that reduced snow cover and created ice cover in fields. Producers need to scout their hay fields to assess the damage, then develop a plan to ensure they will have the forage they need. Keep it, patch it, or start over? Plant counts should be done in the spring and fall each year (Table 1). These can be done when the alfalfa is dormant. The spring count is a good time to dig up some plants and assess root health. Stem counts are useful for predicting yield potential, and these should be done when there is 15-20 cm (6-8 in.) of growth (Table 2). If the number of plants or stems…
