Super forage or overrated?
Lucerne (also known as alfalfa) has long enjoyed a reputation as a high-quality forage for performance horses. Rich in protein, energy, and calcium, it’s a favourite of many competitive yards and stud farms. But is lucerne really the super forage it’s made out to be—or is it sometimes too much of a good thing?
In this deep dive, we explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of using lucerne as a primary forage source, along with expert recommendations on when and how to feed it.
The pros: Why lucerne is a favourite
- High digestible energy:Lucerne is packed with energy, largely in the form of fermentable fibre—not sugar—making it a great option for horses that need condition or are in hard work, without sending their blood sugar soaring.
- Rich in protein:One of lucerne’s standout features is its high-quality protein content. It contains essential amino acids like lysine and methionine, which are crucial for muscle development, tissue repair, and growth in young horses.
- Buffering for the stomach:Lucerne’s high calcium content and chewy fibre structure help buffer stomach acid, making it particularly useful for ulcer-prone horses. Feeding lucerne before work or travel can reduce the risk of gastric irritation.
- Palatable and dust-free (when well stored):Horses love the taste of lucerne, and when harvested and stored correctly, it tends to be lower in dust than some grass hays, making it suitable for sensitive respiratory systems.
The cons: When lucerne might not be idealCalcium to phosphorus imbalance
- Calcium to phosphorus imbalance: Lucerne contains about 5:1 calcium to phosphorus—far higher than the ideal 2:1 ratio. If not balanced with other feeds (especially phosphorus-rich grains or grass hay), this can interfere with mineral absorption and bone development, particularly in growing horses.
- Too much protein for some:While protein is vital, excess levels can place stress on the kidneys and increase water intake and urine output. Horses in light work or easy keepers may not need the protein punch that lucerne provides.
- Risk of obesity or excessive heat production:High energy content means lucerne can cause unwanted weight gain in good doers. It also generates more metabolic heat during digestion, which might be a downside in hot climates or for horses prone to overheating.
- Not always ideal for laminitics:Though lower in non-structural carbohydrates than some hays, lucerne can still be too rich for horses with metabolic conditions. Careful analysis and vet guidance are advised before including it in the diet of a laminitic or IR horse.
Balancing lucerne in the diet
Lucerne is most effective when fed in balance with other forages. A common approach is to feed a 50:50 mix of lucerne and grass hay, which helps:
- Balance the overall protein and mineral content
- Reduce cost (lucerne is often pricier)
- Improve gut fill and chewing time
Sample strategy for a 500kg horse in medium work:
- 4kg grass hay
- 4kg lucerne
- Suitable concentrate or balancer to meet energy and mineral requirements
Always ensure access to clean water—lucerne-fed horses often drink more due to higher protein excretion.
Forage comparison: Lucerne vs teff vs grass hay
| Nutrient/Feature | Lucerne | Teff grass hay | Mixed grass hay |
| Crude Protein | 16–22% | 8–12% | 8–14% |
| Digestible Energy (MJ/kg) | ~9–11 MJ/kg | ~8–9 MJ/kg | ~8–10 MJ/kg |
| Calcium:Phosphorus Ratio | ~5:1 | ~1:1 to 2:1 | ~2:1 |
| NSC (Sugar + Starch) | Low to moderate | Very low | moderate |
| Texture and palatability | Leafy, soft, palatable | Fine, soft, sometimes stemmy | Varies by species and cut |
| Best for | Performance horses, ulcer-prone, broodmares, youngstock | Laminitics, easy keepers | General use, maintenance |
| Watch out for | Excess calcium and protein | Potentially too low energy | Variable quality |
Final thoughts
Lucerne is undoubtedly a nutrient-rich powerhouse, and for many horses—particularly those in work, growing, breeding, or recovering—it can be an excellent component of the diet. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Like any feed, lucerne should be used with understanding, balanced thoughtfully, and tailored to the horse in front of you.
Before switching to lucerne as a primary forage, speak to your vet or equine nutritionist to ensure you’re making the right choice for your horse’s health.