Ascend alfalfa is a licensed proprietary variety marketed as Ascend 552 by Kussmaul Seeds.

Key Features: A very high yielding fall dormancy 5 variety with persistence equal to Vernal.

Genetic Background: A variety comprised of elite yield trial plants from Pennsylvania crossed onto elite dormancy four plants selected for high forage quality.

Field Appearance at Bud Stage:
Plants are tall with an upright growth habit. Medium dark green foliage.

Multifoliate Leaf Expression: 68%

Fall Dormancy: 5.0

Winter Hardiness Rating: 2.22

Wheel Traffic Performance: An 11% advantage over Ameristand 403T.

Yield Performance: ASCEND 552 has been in public and private yield trials since 1998 and has a 20% yield advantage over Vernal. Head-to-head and yield stability reports available.

Management Keys: A variety for growers who aggressively manage their alfalfa crop and want a more uniform yield distribution across each season's harvest. Best adapted for 4- to 5-cut harvest systems and harvest as haylage and baled. Early maturity to first crop. Recommended for the more productive soils and aggressive management. No known soil or management limitations.