Predicting Pre-Harvest Alfalfa Quality Using PEAQ
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Predictive Equations for Alfalfa Quality
(PEAQ) is a method to predict the forage quality of standing alfalfa. It was
developed by Agronomists at the University of Wisconsin - Madison under the direction of
Dr. Ken Albrecht. The two equations predict ADF and NDF when the height of the
tallest stem is measured and the maturity stage of the most advanced plant is
determined. The equations have been validated not only in Wisconsin but also in
numerous other environments from California to New York. Because regression
equations are difficult and somewhat time consuming to deal with in a production field
situation, tables have been developed using computer spreadsheet programs that help make
for rapid in field estimates of NDF or Relative Feed Value (RFV). Additionally,
several seed companies have developed "PEAQ Sticks" that can easily be used to
determine plant height and forage quality. Recently, the original "5 maturity stage" system used with PEAQ has been simplified to a "3 maturity stage" system without a loss of precision. Many state and county extension staff are using PEAQ along with other methods to help farmers predict the optimum harvest time for alfalfa. This has proved especially useful for first-cutting. To learn more about PEAQ and view or print PEAQ tables, check-out the following links: |
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| PEAQ RFV chart and directions for use - html
file PEAQ RFV chart and directions for use - pdf file "Update on Predicting Harvest Time for Alfalfa" - Paper by M. Sulc, K. Albrecht, et al. - (pdf file) |
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