Alfalfa hay has high nutritional value and is used as an ingredient in a variety of animal feeds. It is also used as a soil amendment and has been shown to be effective at improving plant health and increasing microbial activity in sandy soils. However, the production and quality of alfalfa hay is subject to several pests that can negatively affect hay yield and health. Controlling insect and disease pests is therefore critical to achieving high hay yields.
Grazing studies have demonstrated that animals on pasture made up of alfalfa and other legumes produce more milk, beef, and lambs than those on purely grass pastures. This is due to the fact that forage legumes have a greater protein content and better fiber digestibility than cool-season grasses. Alfalfa hay also contains essential vitamins and minerals for livestock.
According to Coherent Market Insights, The global Alfalfa Hay Market size was valued at USD 73 million in 2021 and is anticipated to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6 % from 2022 to 2030.
The roots of the alfalfa plant penetrate much further into the soil than those of other grass hay plants, which gives it a greater ability to access valuable nutrients and improve soil structure. Alfalfa hay can be grown in many different soil types and climate conditions. This versatility makes it a good choice for a wide range of uses.
As a nitrogen-fixing crop, Alfalfa hay has the capacity to satisfy most of the nitrogen requirements through a process known as symbiotic nitrogen fixation. In contrast, other legumes (such as soybeans) must rely on manure or fertilizer to meet their nitrogen needs.
Manure applied to Alfalfa hay stands during the growing season can cause problems including salt burn and reduced palatability. These effects are more pronounced when applying manure slurry or solid manure in surface-applied form. These effects can be minimized by spreading the manure as finely as possible and by ensuring that a uniform application pattern is achieved. The global Edible Nuts Market is projected to reach around US$ 276.08 billion by the end of 2022, in terms of revenue, growing at CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period (2023-2030).
Some alfalfa varieties have a genetic trait that provides a degree of tolerance to abusive grazing practices. This grazing tolerance trait can help producers limit stand damage from over-grazing. Some breeders are also working to develop alfalfa varieties with bloat-reduction traits. This could significantly reduce the risk of bloat in cattle consuming high-forage diets.
An air-dried hay product called as green curd has been launched by Green Praire, in January 2020. This product will help the company in the expansion of their business.
