When the pastures “die” marks the end of spring
With the arrival of June, summer officially begins. Rainfall becomes increasingly rare, temperatures approach 30 °C (90 °F), and a clear shift takes place in the fields: the spring grazing season comes to an end.
Sulla (see article) completes its life cycle, leaving seeds on the surface of the soil. The only plant that still manages to withstand the new weather conditions is alfalfa (Lucerne). Thanks to its deep roots, it can access moisture in the clay soil for much of the summer. But even alfalfa has its limits: under intense sunlight, growth slows and eventually the fields get “burned.”
Alfalfa: Powerful, Useful, but Needs Caution
Alfalfa is an exceptional plant. Like all legumes, it enriches the soil and boosts natural fertility. However, it can be dangerous for ruminants: during its growing phase, if consumed in large quantities, it can cause serious health issues—even death.
This is why grazing on alfalfa must be limited to short periods—no more than 30 minutes. This greatly reduces its role compared to sulla, which remains more central in the forage system.
Still, alfalfa shouldn
’t be underestimated: thanks to its high protein content, it can help slow down the natural decline in milk production that occurs during this time of year.
Why Does Milk Production Decrease?
Many sheep start lactating as early as October. After more than 200 days of continuous production, it’s only natural that they need a break. On top of that, many are already pregnant, and their energy is now directed toward gestation.
Like all herbivores, sheep need fresh, green vegetation to produce milk efficiently. But when temperatures soar, they simply stop eating. Heat reduces their activity and, as a result, their milk output.
Just like us humans, heat decreases appetite and physical energy—so it’s only fair to say that sheep have every reason to be less productive during the summer.
