First alfalfa cutting approaches in Minnesota

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First alfalfa cutting approaches in Minnesota

Minnesota farmers are gearing up for the first cutting of alfalfa.

University of Minnesota Extension crops educator Nathan Drewitz covers the central part of the state and says a cool start to the growing season slowed development.

“We’re behind in terms of height (and) our quality is starting to come down, so I think we’re going to have lower yields and shorter stands to cut.”

He tells Brownfield some alfalfa is ready depending on what the grower is looking for.

“Whether you want quality or yield, or whether you want to stay on a schedule, that’s really what we’re currently seeing play out.”

Drewitz says farmers planning to get three or four cuts this season will need to start soon despite yield and quality concerns. 

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