Alfalfa Weevil Tolerance
Cimarron VL400, Cimarron VL500, Cimarron SR and HayGrazer all possess our unique tolerance to the alfalfa weevil. The level of tolerance in these varieties will delay the need for spraying by a week to 10 days and reduce the amount of insecticide needed by 50%. During light infestations spraying may be avoided all together.
Weevil tolerance reduces weevil damage by 50%
Weevil tolerance was achieved by several generations of field selection. Over time a new type of alfalfa emerged that could out grow weevil feeding.
Weevil tolerance results from several factor, the most important of which are terminal bud and increased lateral branching. These traits also improve forage quality. Large buds produce larger leaves. Increased lateral branching results in finer stems and more leaves without lodging or yield lag. Weevil tolerant varieties produce higher quality hay, so you benefit from tolerance even when the alfalfa weevil is not a problem.