Alfalfa, one of the most nutrient-rich livestock forages, undergoes a carefully timed harvesting process to preserve its quality as hay, pellets, or cubes. Whether you’re a farmer, rancher, or animal owner, understanding how alfalfa moves from field to feed helps you select the best product for your animals’ needs.
The Alfalfa Harvesting Timeline
Alfalfa requires precise cutting schedules to maximize leaf retention and protein content. Farmers typically harvest the crop at the early bloom stage, when the plant’s nutritional value peaks. The first cutting of the season often yields the highest quality forage, while later cuttings may produce greater quantities but with slightly lower protein levels.
After cutting, alfalfa is left to field-dry (a process called “curing”) until moisture levels drop below 18%. This prevents mold growth while retaining essential nutrients. Rain during curing can leach out nutrients, so timing is critical. Once dried, the alfalfa is gathered into bales—either small squares for easy handling or large rounds for bulk storage.
For those seeking premium-quality forage, our guide to Premium Alfalfa Hay Bales explains how proper harvesting impacts feed value.
Processing Alfalfa into Pellets and Cubes
While traditional alfalfa hay remains popular, many farmers now opt for pelletized or cubed alfalfa for easier storage and feeding. The process involves:
-
Grinding dried alfalfa into a uniform consistency
-
Steam conditioning to bind particles naturally
-
Compressing into pellets or cubes using industrial presses
-
Cooling and packaging to prevent moisture absorption
Pellets and cubes offer concentrated nutrition with less waste, making them ideal for operations with limited storage space. Our detailed comparison of Alfalfa Hay vs. Pellets vs. Cubes breaks down the pros and cons of each format.
Quality Factors in Harvested Alfalfa
Not all alfalfa products are equal. Key quality indicators include:
-
Leaf-to-stem ratio (more leaves = higher protein)
-
Color (bright green indicates proper curing)
-
Foreign matter (weeds or debris lower quality)
-
Smell (fresh, sweet aroma suggests good preservation)
These factors determine whether alfalfa is suitable for dairy cows needing high protein or horses requiring balanced fiber. Learn how different livestock benefit in our article on Alfalfa for Cattle and Goats.
Modern Harvesting Technology
Today’s alfalfa producers use specialized equipment to enhance efficiency:
-
Swathers with conditioning rollers speed up drying
-
Moisture sensors prevent baling damp hay
-
Pellet mills with temperature controls preserve heat-sensitive vitamins
These advancements help maintain the forage’s nutritional profile from field to feed bin. For a comprehensive look at alfalfa’s role in animal diets, explore our Ultimate Alfalfa Guide.
Why Harvesting Methods Matter
The way alfalfa is cut, dried, and processed directly impacts:
✔ Feed efficiency – Well-cured alfalfa digests better
✔ Storage longevity – Properly dried resists spoilage
✔ Animal health – High-quality forage reduces supplementation needs
Whether you choose loose hay, pellets alfalfa, or cubes, understanding harvesting helps you buy smarter. For species-specific feeding recommendations, see our guide to Alfalfa for Different Animals.
Key Takeaways
-
Alfalfa reaches peak nutrition when cut at early bloom
-
Proper drying prevents mold while saving proteins
-
Pellets/cubes offer convenience but require processing
-
Leaf retention is the #1 visual quality marker
By mastering how alfalfa is harvested, you can better evaluate alfalfa products for your livestock’s needs.
Want to explore alfalfa varieties? Read about the Different Types of Alfalfa grown worldwide.