Alfalfa

Alfalfa, also known as Medicago sativa, is a plant very popular as a green manure for its beneficial role in vegetable gardens. Its use dates back centuries, and it is still valued for its many benefits to the soil and cultivated plants. In this text, we'll take a close look at alfalfa as a green manure, focusing on its cultivation, its benefits for vegetable garden soil, and the best practices for sowing and harvesting it.

Alfalfa is a legume, which means it has the unique ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil through a symbiosis with specific bacteria found in its roots. This ability to enrich the soil with nitrogen is one of the main reasons why alfalfa is widely used as a green manure. Nitrogen is an essential element for plant growth, and its supply promotes the production of dense, healthy foliage, as well as the formation of deep, strong roots. In addition to enriching the soil with nitrogen, alfalfa also improves its structure, fertility and water retention.

To sow alfalfa in your vegetable garden, start by carefully preparing the soil. Remove weeds and level the surface to an even layer. If the soil is compact, it is recommended to work it deeply with a fork or a grelinette to improve its aeration. Then you can sow the alfalfa seeds, distributing them evenly over the soil surface. To facilitate germination, it is advisable to cover them with a thin layer of soil or compost. Water abundantly to ensure good hydration of the seeds.

The best time to sow alfalfa is in spring or early fall, when conditions are favorable for germination and plant growth. Be sure to space the seeds well, as alfalfa tends to grow densely. A distance of 10 to 15 centimeters between plants is generally recommended. Once the plants have reached a height of approximately 15 to 20 centimeters, it is time to pull them up to benefit from their benefits for the soil and prepare the ground for the next crop.

Pulling out alfalfa, also called mowing, is a crucial step to maximize its benefits for the soil. It is advisable to do this before the plants flower, as this is when alfalfa reaches its peak nitrogen content. By mowing alfalfa, you allow the nutrients it has accumulated to be released into the soil and available for subsequent crops. Use a mower or scythe to cut the plants close to the ground, then let them dry in place for a few days before burying them in the ground using a spade or tiller.

In conclusion, alfalfa is an excellent choice of green manure for vegetable gardens thanks to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, improve soil structure and promote plant growth. To sow, prepare the soil, sow the seeds evenly and water thoroughly. Alfalfa should be sown in spring or early fall and mowed before flowering to maximize its benefits to the soil. Take advantage of the benefits of this natural green manure by adding it to your vegetable garden growing routine.