Get to Know Alfalfa Before You Use It!

Get to Know Alfalfa Before You Use It!
By Asst. Prof. Dr. Somphoth Weerakul (Mor Kaew)

Alfalfa is a legume (dicotyledon), so it cannot be directly compared to standard grasses. While high-quality grasses are typically harvested at the "mid-bud" stage (known as the First Cut), high-quality Alfalfa is often referred to as Non-First Cut Premium.

This means it isn’t harvested at the earliest possible stage; instead, growers wait for more leaves to sprout while the plant still maintains a high protein level (usually exceeding 20%). This stage is still considered "Premium."

Why not harvest during the seedling stage?
The reason is simple: at the earliest stage, there are very few leaves. Pet owners generally dislike this because rabbits and small herbivores prefer eating leaves over stalks. The stage that yields the most lush green leaves also provides a higher overall yield, making it more cost-effective for production.

The Rarity of "First Cut Premium" Alfalfa
True First Cut Premium Alfalfa is harvested during the early budding stage (mid-bud). At this stage, the leaves may appear reddish-brown and are fewer in number, which makes it unpopular with the general public.

However, this stage actually offers the highest protein content—often exceeding 22%—in both the leaves and the soft stems. It is quite rare and is typically reserved for beef cattle, dairy cows, racehorses, or livestock requiring high production output. In short, it is technically superior, yet pet owners often overlook it in favor of "leafier" options. Therefore, choosing Non-First Cut Premium is still a good choice, while the seedling-stage variety is usually sold within niche markets.

Observation Tip: If you notice a bag of Alfalfa with very few leaves, don't dismiss it immediately. Take a second look; you might be holding the ideal Alfalfa for young, growing animals.

Time to Adapt and Improve
How is Pelletized Alfalfa better than loose Hay?
Optimal Nutrition: You can utilize the highest grade of Alfalfa without the waste (and loss of money) caused by picky eaters.
Dust-Free: It helps prevent respiratory issues caused by hay dust.
Total Consumption: Since the animal cannot "sort" their food, they consume every part of the plant. This ensures they don't miss out on essential nutrients like fiber and energy.
Enhanced Formulas: Many brands fortify their pellets with probiotics, vitamins, and minerals to increase nutritional value beyond what raw hay can provide.