soil amendments: alfalfa

This week I’m adding more alfalfa pellets to our flower beds. This brand (40 lb. bag) has been on sale at Tractor Supply for $17.99. So far, I’ve purchased 8 bags though I could use an additional 8.

Why Alfalfa Pellets?

I first heard about it through the Virginia Gardening Facebook group. One of the members uses alfalfa pellets in his soil amendment program. Alfalfa has an NPK value of 3-1-2. It also has a range of micro-nutrients like calcium, magnesium, sulphur, manganese, iron, copper, boron, and zinc. It improves the soil structure, very important for our clay soil, and has a natural growth hormone called Triacontanol that stimulates plant growth and development. It can also be used as a compost activator which is another reason for me to purchase more alfalfa. I need lots of compost to improve the soil in the flower and vegetable beds.

As I work in the beds this week, I’m seeing signs of new life. These crocus are coming up in the bed near our front steps. I can’t wait to see the daffodils come up; they’re my favorite early spring flower!