Alfalfa plant population
- Typical range: 15 to 20 lb of seed per acre; 25 to 40 plants per square foot after establishment
- Example spacing: 6-inch rows with 20 plants per foot
- Reference weight of 1,000 seeds: 2.2 g
In this calculator the "germination" percentage for alfalfa represents field establishment (50 % by default). With 6-inch rows and 20 plants per foot you get 40 plants per square foot, which needs about 17 pounds of seed per acre.
Stands thin out over time: a productive second- or third-year stand usually has 5 to 12 plants per square foot.
These are reference values and change with variety, management and region. For your field, check the seed company recommendation or your local extension service.
Frequently asked questions
How many pounds of alfalfa seed per acre?
Usually 15 to 20 pounds per acre; use the higher end when broadcasting or on difficult soils.