Selecting Grass and Alfalfa Varieties
The most important criterion when selecting grass and alfalfa varieties is to use certified seed. There is no such thing as bargain seed. Certified seed of recommended varieties ensures:
- High germination rates
- Freedom from noxious weed seeds
- Adaptation to Manitoba growing conditions
Using Canada No. 1 Common Seed does not guarantee these quality factors.
Variety Recommendations
Each year, Seed Manitoba – Variety Recommendations and Growers Directory is published in partnership with the Manitoba Seed Growers Association and Manitoba Agriculture. This publication lists forage grasses and legumes recommended for Manitoba.
Varieties earn their recommendation through rigorous evaluation by the Manitoba Forage Seed Association, funded by Manitoba Agriculture and industry partners. Testing occurs at three main sites: Arborg, Neepawa, and Steinbach, under a three-cut system over three production years. Varieties must meet or exceed the performance standard in at least 66% of trials to be recommended.
Alfalfa in Manitoba: Key Guidelines and Variety Selection
Alfalfa is the most important legume for hay and pasture in Manitoba. Its high protein content makes it a valuable livestock feed, and as a nitrogen-fixing crop, proper inoculation eliminates the need for nitrogen fertilizer.
Establishment Guidelines
To ensure successful growth and persistence:
- Sow in a firm, well-prepared seedbed
- Use certified pedigreed seed of recommended varieties
- Inoculate with the proper nitrogen-fixing bacteria
- Apply fertilizer based on soil test recommendations
- Implement an effective weed control program
Choosing the Correct Variety
Select varieties that:
- Produce high yields of quality forage
- Are winter hardy and resistant to bacterial wilt
- Suit local soil conditions and intended use (hay, pasture, or seed)
Winter hardiness is critical for survival in Manitoba’s climate. Very hardy varieties persist longer but grow and regrow more slowly. Less hardy types grow earlier and recover faster but may only last 2–3 years.
Disease Resistance:
- Bacterial wilt resistance is essential for stand longevity.
- Verticillium wilt is emerging in eastern Manitoba; many new varieties offer resistance.
Types of Alfalfa
- Variegated (Medicago media): Most cold-tolerant; bred for winterhardiness and drought tolerance.
- Flemish (Medicago sativa): Early growth, quick recovery, moderately winterhardy; matures earlier than variegated types.
Use Categories
Category |
Primary Use |
Pros |
Cons |
Early Maturing |
Hay |
Rapid spring growth, early regrowth |
Least winterhardy |
Medium Maturing |
Hay |
More winterhardy, persistent on marginal soils |
Slightly later maturity |
Creeping Rooted |
Pasture & Hay |
Flood/drought resistant, withstands grazing |
Lower yields |
Note: All alfalfa varieties pose a risk of pasture bloat when grazing livestock.
Soil Considerations
Alfalfa thrives in well-drained soils. Poor drainage increases disease risk and reduces stand persistence.
Detailed trial results, including forage and seed production data, are available from Livestock and Forage Extension Specialists, or the Manitoba Forage Seed Association.
