Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a highly adaptable, nutrient-dense perennial legume valued globally across several industries. The plant is recognized for its deep root system, which allows it to draw up various minerals and nutrients from the soil. The specific form in which alfalfa is purchased—such as fresh sprouts, hay, or planting seed—is entirely dictated by its intended application, ranging from personal dietary supplement to large-scale agricultural input.
Alfalfa for Human Health and Diet
Consumers seeking alfalfa for personal consumption typically encounter it in three forms: fresh sprouts, dried leaves, and concentrated supplements. Fresh alfalfa sprouts are the most common preparation, generally found in the refrigerated produce sections of grocery stores and health food markets. These sprouts are consumed raw in salads and sandwiches, offering a crisp texture and high concentration of vitamins.
Dried alfalfa leaves are often sold in bulk or as a fine powder for use in herbal teas or smoothies. These dried products are usually sourced from specialized online retailers or brick-and-mortar health food stores and herb shops. When selecting these forms, consumers should look for products certified as organic to ensure they are grown without synthetic pesticides.
Alfalfa is also processed into dietary supplements, sold as capsules or tablets, commonly available at pharmacies, major retail chains, and online supplement distributors. These supplements concentrate the plant’s nutritional compounds, including vitamins K and C. Consumers should verify that the product has undergone third-party testing or is certified for human consumption to ensure purity and quality.
Alfalfa for Livestock and Pet Nutrition
Alfalfa is a primary feed source for many animals, especially ruminants and equines. It is most frequently sold as hay, which can be purchased in large square or round bales, or processed into cubes and pellets. These bulk products are typically acquired from local farm supply stores, specialized feed dealers, or directly from hay brokers and agricultural producers.
The quality of alfalfa hay is measured by its nutrient content, with different grades suited for different animals. Dairy-quality alfalfa is often bright green and highly leafy, possessing a high crude protein content, sometimes ranging from 22 to 26 percent. This high-protein feed supports the nutritional demands of lactating dairy cows.
Hay intended for horses is graded differently, generally requiring a protein level between 14 and 20 percent and a softer stem texture. Equine-quality hay must also be free of mold and dust, as horses are sensitive to respiratory issues caused by poor-quality forage. Alfalfa pellets and cubes offer a dense, easy-to-store alternative to baled hay, which helps manage waste and ensures consistent nutrient delivery to various livestock and companion animals.
Alfalfa for Soil Improvement and Planting
Gardeners and agricultural producers use alfalfa in two main ways for soil health, each requiring a different purchase channel. Alfalfa seeds are bought for planting as a forage crop or, more commonly, as a cover crop to improve soil structure and fertility. These seeds are found at local garden centers, agricultural cooperatives, and specialized online seed retailers.
As a legume, alfalfa has a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria, allowing it to naturally enrich the soil with nitrogen when the cover crop is tilled under. For this purpose, it is important to purchase certified seed, which is tested for purity and often comes pre-inoculated with the necessary Rhizobium bacteria strain. Planting seed is typically a seasonal purchase, with availability peaking before spring and fall planting windows.
The second product is alfalfa meal, a granular material used as a slow-release organic fertilizer and soil conditioner. Alfalfa meal is a common component in organic gardening, supplying a balanced source of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This meal also contains triacontanol, a naturally occurring growth stimulant that benefits plant vigor. Alfalfa meal is generally available year-round at nurseries, independent garden supply stores, and bulk agricultural supply outlets.