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Plant Care Guide > Alfalfa > Transplant
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How to Transplant Alfalfa
(Medicago sativa)
Alfalfa, also known as Alfalfa
The perfect time to transplant alfalfa is during mid-to-late spring, as it allows for optimal growth. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil, and consider adding a light fertilizer. Remember, alfalfa enjoys cool temperatures but can also tolerate warm climates.
transplant

What Preparations are Needed Before Transplanting Alfalfa?

What is the Ideal Time for Transplanting Alfalfa?
The period extending from mid to late spring is a sweet spot to transplant alfalfa. This timeframe affords alfalfa optimal temperature and moisture for growth. Adopt this schedule for lush, vibrant alfalfa plants.
How Much Space Should You Leave Between Alfalfa Plants?
For transplanting alfalfa, it's best to space them about 14-18 inches (35-45 cm) apart. This will ensure they have enough room to grow and thrive.
What is the Best Soil Mix for Alfalfa Transplanting?
Prepare a well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level for alfalfa. Add compost or well-rotted manure as a base fertilizer to enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients.
Where Should You Relocate Your Alfalfa?
Choose a sunny spot for your alfalfa with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. This will encourage strong growth and prevent potential shading issues from other plants.
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What Equipments Should You Prepare Before Transplantation Alfalfa?

Gardening Gloves
To protect your hands while working with the soil and alfalfa plant.
Trowel
To dig planting holes in the ground for the alfalfa transplants.
Shovel or Spade
To remove soil around the root ball when removing plants from the ground or to dig a larger planting hole for the alfalfa if necessary.
Watering Can or Garden Hose
To water the alfalfa before and after transplanting.
Gardening Fork
To loosen compacted soil before planting alfalfa transplants.
Organic compost or Aged Manure
To amend the planting hole with nutrients for improved growth of the alfalfa plant.

How Do You Remove Alfalfa from the Soil?

From Ground: First, water the alfalfa plant to dampen the soil. Then, dig a wide trench around the plant using a shovel or spade, ensuring the plant's root ball remains intact. Carefully work the spade under the root ball to lift the alfalfa plant from its original location.
From Pot: Water the alfalfa plant in the pot to moisten the soil. Turn the pot upside down while supporting the alfalfa plant with one hand, and tap the bottom of the pot to release the plant, root ball, and soil. Handle the plant by its root ball, not the stem.
From Seedling Tray: Gently water the alfalfa seedlings in the tray. Using a trowel or a spoon, carefully lift the seedlings out of the tray by scooping underneath the root ball. Be gentle to avoid damaging the delicate roots of the alfalfa seedlings.

Step-by-Step Guide for Transplanting Alfalfa

Harden Off alfalfa Plants
Gradually acclimate alfalfa plants to outdoor conditions for 7-10 days before transplanting. Start by placing them in a sheltered area outdoors with indirect sunlight, and increase their exposure to the sun and elements each day.
Loosen Soil
Use a gardening fork to loosen and dig up the soil in the planting area to improve aeration and drainage for alfalfa transplants.
Soil Amendment
Add organic compost or aged manure to planting hole and the surrounding soil to provide nutrients for the alfalfa plant.
Plant Spacing
Space alfalfa seedlings or plants apart according to their specific requirements. Typically, this will be about 18-24 inches apart.
Transplant alfalfa
Using a trowel, dig a hole for each alfalfa transplant. Gently place the plant into the hole, ensuring that the root ball is at the same level as the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with soil and gently press around the plant to eliminate air pockets.
Water alfalfa Immediately
After transplanting, water alfalfa thoroughly to help the plant settle into its new location and to minimize transplant shock.
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How Do You Care For Alfalfa After Transplanting?

Watering
Keep the soil around the alfalfa consistently moist, but not soggy, for the first few weeks after transplanting to help establish strong roots.
Monitoring
Regularly monitor alfalfa for signs of transplant shock, such as wilting or yellowing leaves. If these symptoms occur, ensure the plant is receiving adequate water and consider providing temporary shade.
Weed Control
Keep the area around alfalfa free of weeds to minimize competition for water and nutrients.
Fertilizing
Optionally, you can apply a balanced fertilizer about a month after transplanting to promote alfalfa growth. Be sure to follow the package instructions for proper application rates and timing.
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Troubleshooting Common Issues with Alfalfa Transplantation.

When is the best time to transplant alfalfa?
The optimum time for transplanting alfalfa is from mid-spring to late spring when the temperature is mild.
How much spacing is required when transplanting alfalfa?
To ensure healthy growth, alfalfa should ideally be spaced between 14-18 inches (35-45 cm) apart during transplantation.
Why are my transplanted alfalfa wilting?
Alfalfa might wilt due to insufficient watering after transplantation. Keeping the soil evenly moist can help in recovery.
What should be the depth of the hole for transplanting alfalfa?
The hole should be deep enough to fully accommodate the root ball of alfalfa, generally, double its size.
Do I need to amend the soil before transplanting alfalfa?
Yes, improving the soil with compost or a slow-release fertilizer can help alfalfa establish faster and grow healthier.
Why are transplanted alfalfa turning yellow?
Yellowing in alfalfa could mean too much water or a deficiency in nutrients. Check the soil moisture and nutritional value.
Should I prune alfalfa before transplanting?
No, alfalfa doesn't require pruning before transplanting. Instead, focus on providing optimal growth conditions.
How often should I water alfalfa after transplanting?
Regular watering is crucial for alfalfa after transplanting. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Can I transplant alfalfa in the summer?
The best period to transplant alfalfa is mid-spring to late spring. Summer transplanting may stress the plant due to high temperatures.
Is part-shade adequate for transplanted alfalfa growth?
Alfalfa prefers full sun but can tolerate part-shade. Ensure it gets 6-8 hours of direct sunlight for robust growth.
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