The Effect of Summer and Winter Termination of Irrigation on Non-Dormant Alfalfa Yield and Stand

Abstract

A test was conducted to evaluate the effect of irrigation termination during the summer (July through October) and winter (October through February) upon alfalfa yield and stand Termination during the summer harmed the stand and seriously reduced yields. Termination during the winter resulted in minor yield reduction and no stand damage. The benefits of suboptimal irrigation are site specific and dependent upon many factors. This test demonstrated that the winter should not be overlooked as a time to conserve water on alfalfa production.