Alfalfa Royal Guardians

Companion plant alfalfa: Increases water penetration and retention and fixes nitrogen

ALFALFA

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) is a deep-rooted perennial member of the pea family. Often called the "King of foods", it is one of the earliest crops domesticated by humans. Also known as lucerne, it is also a prized animal feed and is grown as silage for its high nutritional value. The word alfalfa is derived from the Arabic al-fac-facah, which literally translates as "father of all foods". A well-deserved name. Alfalfa is high in essential vitamins and minerals, including all the B vitamins, A,D,E,K and biotin.

Alfalfa is an ideal companion plant for cannabis as it fixes nitrogen and accumulates iron, magnesium, potassium and phosphorous. The deep roots help break up the soil, increasing water penetration and retention and slowing evaporation. A tea steeped from the dry stalks makes a renowned tonic, that stimulates growth in other plants, including cannabis.

Alfalfa repels the dreaded lygus bug, while attracting friends to your patch, like ladybugs, assassin beetles and several predatory wasps. Growing to a metre tall when left alone, the stalks should be trimmed regularly. They are an ideal green manure or mineral-rich addition to any compost. The seeds when sprouted are a favourite in salads.