Lucerne or afalfa (Medicago Sativa) is the plant longest grown for animal feed.Lucern was from the first products cultivated in Vaalharts region. Vaalharts Lucerne is well known for its high percentage of proteins and quality of hay,which is essential for the feeding of milking cows and meat production.
Cultivation:
The used of Lucerne in the form of hay is a popular used in South Africa Unpredictable thunderstorms may hamper the process and .4-5 days sunny weather is ideal for the harvesting of lucern.The Vaalharts region is well known for it's sunny weather which make it ideal for the cultivation of Lucerne .Many farmers use a crimper which helps to speed up the water loss and drying process.The potential number of cuts can be vary from 2-12 per season.
Before considering the cultivation of Lucerne it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the soil to ensure that it would be possible to grow Lucerne economically.The following article of the Western Cape Department of Agriculture Head Office situated at Elsenburg in the Stellenbosch District will give you the guidelines to ensure good soil preparation.