Growing Alfalfa in Fresno
Can you grow Alfalfa in Fresno? Viable with management. Season ~27°C, rainfall ~439 mm, winter low ~0.4°C. Soil, climate and ROI data.
Decision snapshot
Regional screening evidenceScreening answer: The stored regional profile passes this first climate screen at the representative centroid. Parcel conditions and commercial feasibility still require verification.
Scope: This page assesses agronomic suitability. It does not determine whether cultivation is legal. Check current national, state, and local rules before planting.
- Observed region
- Fresno
- Climate window
- Open-Meteo archive, 2021–2023 daily data
- Resolution
- Representative regional centroid, not a field survey
Assumptions, fit-shortfall, and next checks
A representative centroid and regional climate window cannot establish parcel soil, water access, elevation, infrastructure, labour, contracts, or local farm-gate economics. Use this page to identify the next question, then verify local evidence before committing capital.
Is Alfalfa viable in Fresno?
Alfalfa can be grown in Fresno with the right management — annual rainfall (~439 mm) is below its 730 mm need, so supplemental irrigation helps. Alfalfa (Forage & Fodder, perennial) performs best around 18 - 28 °C with a seasonal water requirement of 730 mm / season. Run a coordinate-level audit for mapped field-level estimates and local risk context.
Growing Alfalfa in Fresno: what to expect
Rainfall in Fresno (~439 mm/yr) covers only about 60% of Alfalfa's ~730 mm need, so budget for supplemental irrigation. Plant Alfalfa in early spring once the risk of hard frost has passed in Fresno.
Soil and climate requirements for Alfalfa
Compare mapped conditions for a selected field with the crop-profile requirements below before making a planting decision.
| Parameter | Alfalfa Requirement |
|---|---|
| Soil pH | 6.5 - 7.8 |
| Water Requirement | 730 mm / season |
| Optimal Temperature | 18 - 28 °C |
| Waterlogging Tolerance | Intolerant |
| Nitrogen Demand | Very Low (nitrogen-fixing) |
Reference yield and price range
The figures below are crop-profile reference values, not a field-specific yield or profit forecast. Local costs, grade, packout and buyer terms still need to be entered or verified.
| Metric | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Reference yield per hectare | 12 t/ha |
| Reference yield per acre | 4.86 t/acre |
| Market Price | $150 - $300 / t |
| Estimated Gross Revenue | $2,700 / Hectare |
Alfalfa in other regions
Planning to Grow Alfalfa in Fresno?
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