Vernal is one of the most trusted and widely grown alfalfa varieties in North America. An upright perennial with a deep taproot, it produces characteristically purple flowers and delivers very high palatability that livestock find consistently attractive.
Its strong winter hardiness and dormant growth habit (fall dormancy score of 2–3) make it particularly well-suited for northern climates, where reliable stand persistence matters. With proper management, Vernal stands can remain productive for 4–6 years or more, and typically support 3–4 cuttings per season depending on location and conditions.
As a legume, Vernal naturally fixes atmospheric nitrogen, benefiting soil health and reducing fertilizer inputs over time. It also carries moderate resistance to bacterial wilt, one of the more common threats to alfalfa stands.
