Yellow lucerne
Medicago falcata · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant yellow lucerne: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September, yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20°C
- Origin
- Central Asia, Mediterranean basin
- Soil type
- Well-drained, tolerant of poor soils
Care
Watering
Water moderately during the growing period, especially in the first few weeks after planting. Sainfoin is very tolerant of drought once established thanks to its deep root system. Avoid excessive water that could promote root rot.
Sunlight
Place this plant in full sun for optimal flowering and vigorous growth. It also tolerates partial shade areas, but flower production will decrease. A well-ventilated location is preferable.
Soil
Sainfoin adapts to all soil types, even poor or chalky ones. Well-drained soil is essential to avoid waterlogging. No special amendments are necessary thanks to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is generally necessary. As a legume, this plant naturally enriches the soil with nitrogen through bacterial symbiosis. A light application of phosphorus can encourage flowering if the soil is very depleted.
Pruning and cutting
You can mow or trim this plant to 10-15 cm from the ground to encourage branching and bushier growth. Regular cutting extends flowering. Allow 2 to 3 weeks between each cut for regrowth.
Diseases and pests
Sainfoin is generally very resistant. It may occasionally be affected by rust or powdery mildew in very humid conditions. Good air circulation and adequate drainage are sufficient to prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Sainfoin has been a first-choice fodder since antiquity: the Romans already used it to feed their horses and livestock. Its nickname 'sainfoin' comes from the characteristic sickle-shaped curve of its pods. It is a pioneer plant that has historically improved soil fertility thanks to its unique ability to capture nitrogen from the air.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.