Alfalfa will quit growing after the first hard freeze, which can be as early as October 1 or as late as November 1. The decision should be weather-based at this time of the year because the timing of the last two cuttings impacts the winter survival and productivity of the stand in the following year.
Alfalfa will quit growing after the first hard freeze. In Kansas, this could happen as early as October 1 or as late as November 1. The last cutting prior to dormancy should be made so there will be 8 to 12 inches of foliage, or 4 to 6 weeks of growth time, before the first killing frost.