What is Alfalfa Meal?

Made by fermenting alfalfa seeds, alfalfa meal is a plant-based alternative to chemical fertilizers. This organic crop growth booster adds primary minerals, including phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium, to the soil. Its natural composition and earthy smell make it ideal for those looking for a chemical-free fertilizer for their garden.

Alfalfa meal is naturally rich in the above-mentioned minerals, containing them in a ratio of 3-1-2. This average N-P-K ratio is sufficient to add nitrogen to the soil for plant growth. Besides, alfalfa has other micronutrients, including zinc, boron, copper, sulfur, calcium, and magnesium. The presence of different minerals in large and trace quantities helps improve the overall health of the soil. 

Alfalfa meal alone can support the soil’s ecosystem by adding to the soil structure. Since alfalfa is fermented, the microbial activity of the soil increases. This ensures the soil composition is right for healthy plant roots. Besides, the water-holding capacity of the soil improves with enhanced soil structure. Therefore, the plants may not need to be watered frequently. 

Alfalfa meal also contains a natural growth hormone called Triacontanol which supports plant growth. This growth hormone triggers the yield and leads to better-tasting fruits. If you’re worried pests will attack the plants and crops, then alfalfa can help with that as well. The detergent-like compounds called saponins present in this organic fertilizer can repel pests naturally. The frequency and severity of insects may reduce significantly after using alfalfa meal. 

Using Alfalfa Meal

Alfalfa offers an environmentally friendly fertilizer for plants and crops. It does not contain harmful chemicals that often lead to soil deterioration and water pollution over time. Using alfalfa will give you peace of mind on being a biodegradable and environmentally conscious choice. The use may depend on the type of crop and size of the field.

During the spring season, you may add a handful or two of alfalfa pellets in water to the plants. Do this every growth cycle for a good bloom. This simple method will keep the plants healthy throughout the season. If you are using alfalfa for roses, use about 2-3 cups(500ml) around the bushes.

This rough amount will be enough for the bushes to grow well. If you are growing hedges, use 4-5 cups(1000ml) of alfalfa to support the growth. This will suffice the annual need for hedges and need no reapplication. You may reapply the fertilizer for blooming flowers with a longer growing season. 

Precautionary measures when using alfalfa

If you have plants such as gardenia, wax begonia, and camellias, then avoid using alfalfa as they like acidic soil. The alkaline nature of alfalfa meal will alter the soil. Make sure you store the surplus fertilizer in airtight containers to prevent rodents from eating it. 

Another caution to take when using alfalfa meal is to avoid getting the powdery substance into your eyes or breathing it in. You may use a face mask and gloves for additional safety. Besides, use a rake to add the fertilizer into the soil, followed by water.