Alfalfa Plant Care
Medicago sativa L.
Alfalfa, lucerne, Medicago sativa is a perennial flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae. It is cultivated as an important forage crop in many countries around the world and is used for grazing, hay, and silage, as well as a green manure and cover crop.
Every 3–5 days
Full sun to partial shade
60–80°F
40–60%
What Is the Alfalfa?
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) belongs to the Fabaceae family within the Medicago genus. Alfalfa is native to warmer temperate climates. Alfalfa is also known as Lucerne.
Alfalfa displays an upright, spreading herb growth habit, reaching up to 2 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 inches. Alfalfa produces small clusters of yellow flowers in elongated spikes.
Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Alfalfa?
Medicago sativa requires watering every 3–5 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 3–5 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Alfalfa Need?
Alfalfa thrives in full sun to partial shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 2000–5000 lux. Avoid placing Alfalfa in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to partial shade
2000–5000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Alfalfa Prefer?
Medicago sativa grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Alfalfa prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
40–60%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Alfalfa?
Well-draining loamy soil with good fertility. Good drainage is essential for Alfalfa to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Alfalfa?
Repot every 1-2 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Alfalfa?
Alfalfa can be propagated through seeds, division of rootball.
Fertilizing
Every 4 months
During the growing season
Is the Alfalfa Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Alfalfa?
Alfalfa is susceptible to aphids, leafhoppers, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Alfalfa Need?
Alfalfa grows outdoors in USDA Zone 3a – 10a. Native to warmer temperate climates, Alfalfa is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Alfalfa as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 3a – 10a
Keep exploring plants
Alfalfa is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Medicago genus — compare its care with other Medicago species on PlantoScan.
Alfalfa tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.
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