Lucerne Milky Max is a perennial plant of the legume family, widely used as green manure, fodder, and honey-producing crop, as well as for ornamental purposes. It has the ability to accumulate nitrogen in its roots and crop residues, making it an excellent predecessor for cereal and other agricultural crops. Seed sowing is typically carried out at the beginning of spring, while summer sowing is possible only under sufficient moisture and favorable weather conditions.
For successful lucerne cultivation, it is important to consider soil characteristics and agronomic practices. The optimal soil pH range for lucerne is between 6.3 and 7.3. At lower pH levels, yield significantly decreases, and at pH below 5.5, losses can be catastrophic. In such cases, soil liming is recommended prior to main treatment. During the season, lucerne undergoes several cuttings, which require careful soil handling, as compaction of the top 10–15 cm layer negatively affects gas exchange and reduces yield. Excessive compaction is one of the main reasons for reducing the lifespan of crops to 3–4 years.
Protection of lucerne from pests and diseases also plays an important role. In spring, during the early stage of vegetative recovery, plants are especially vulnerable to insects that may damage buds, delaying growth by several weeks. To combat weeds, American farmers use soil herbicides such as Eptam, as well as conduct treatments after cutting to control grassy and broadleaf weeds. Using fungicides once or twice per season helps maintain lower leaves green and attached to the stem, improving both yield and quality of fodder mass.
