PROGRESSIVE FORAGE.COM – Winter injury occurs someplace every year. Being able to diagnose and manage winter-damaged stands may help prolong stand life and increase production. Below is a brief discussion on diagnosing and managing winter-damaged alfalfa. . . . .
Uneven growth
During winter, some buds on a plant crown may be killed and others may not. The uninjured buds will start growth early, while the injured buds must be replaced by new buds formed in spring. This will result in shoots of different height on the same plant, with the shoots from buds formed in spring several inches shorter than the shoots arising from fall buds.
Contributed by Dr. Dan Undersander
Kansas Forage and Grassland Council 