Alfalfa Seed Yields from Seeded Rows vs. Spaced Transplants1

This study was conducted to determine the best procedure to follow for a maximum seed increase from a limited supply of stock alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) seed. Seedlings of ‘Arc’ alfalfa transplanted 30.5, 61, and 122 cm apart in 91‐cm rows produced similar seed yields in all plant spacings during the year of establishment, and significantly greater yields than did seeded rows. Seed yields in the second and third harvest years did not differ among the four plant spacings; all yields exceeded 1,125 kg/ha. Seed yields from widely spaced plants (8,970 plants/ha) equaled those from closely spaced plants (35,879 plants/ha). Based on these results, the maximum initial seed increase from limited alfalfa stock seed would be obtained by transplanting seedling plants in the field at spacings that give 9,000 to 10,000 plants/ha.