Evaluating the potential of using a Canadian Sudangrass hybrid and ryegrass as companion crops for alfalfa establishment

Alfalfa is a legume forage crop that is intensively grown in Canada and represents a major feed source for livestock ruminants (i.e. dairy cows). When establishing pure stands of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) there are two primary options to minimize weed encroachment: the use of herbicides or the use of companion crops. Companion crops will minimize weed development during the establishment year, provide more harvestable forage biomass, and reduce risks of erosion. Cereals are traditionally used as companion crops but new species such as Sudangrass and ryegrass this project is to determine the effects of underseeding alfalfa with various companion crops on forage yield and quality, and alfalfa establishment and persistence, with a focus on newly available species.

Faculty Supervisor:

Philippe Seguin

Student:

Caroline Matteau

Partner:

Bélisle Solution Nutrition Inc

Discipline:

Forestry

Sector:

Agriculture

University:

Program: