Alfalfa
Forage crop that yields well in hot, dry climates; seed fields in particular produce pale alfalfa honey that crystallises quickly.
- Nectar
- Good
- Pollen
- Low
- Flowering
- JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
- Crystallisation
- Fast
- Height
- 0.5-1 m
- Life cycle
- Perennial
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Alfalfa is an important forage crop that yields plenty of nectar in hot, fairly dry continental climates. Its flower has a tripping mechanism: when an insect lands, the male and female parts spring out. Honey bees avoid this blow and often learn to take nectar from the side of the flower. Leafcutter bees are therefore more effective pollinators, but honey bees still collect plenty of nectar. Secretion rises in hot, sunny weather and on calcareous soils, and falls in cool, humid weather.
Flowering
It flowers again after every cut from May to September. Because it is usually cut for fodder at the start of flowering, bees can use it only briefly; seed fields are far more valuable.
Honey and pollen
Alfalfa honey is pale yellow to whitish, mild and lightly sweet; it crystallises quickly with a fine grain. Little pollen is collected.
Note for the beekeeper
If spraying is planned, agree with the farmer on evening application. The surroundings of alfalfa seed fields make a good summer site.