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Cutting and loading lucerne as forage for feeding out to stock.

Mowing usually gives the highest yields of fodder from lucerne, however the stand must be cut at the right stage and removed quickly. To give the best yields for either hay or green fodder, lucerne should be cut when the crown buds begin to push up new shoots. Care must be taken to adjust mowing height to prevent injury to any young shoots that may be emerging from the crown. Whether lucerne is mown or grazed, maintaining a highly productive stand demands a management system in which the older top growth is removed without damaging the young shoots.

(Source: Peter Fulwood)