RED CLOVER
RED CLOVER
Red clover has a yield four times that of white clover and is one of the best forages for finishing lambs. Its ability to improve soil structure and increase fertility out-weigh the management issues associated with this species. Red clover tillers from a crown. It is damage to this crown that reduces the longevity of red clover, typically lasting three years, although new varieties can now last five years. Red clover is high in protein but low in sugar, therefore it needs special attention when making silage. It can affect the fertility of ewes, due to oestrogen production if grazed six weeks before and after tupping. It can also cause potential bloat problems. • Extremely high DM yields (14T DM/ha/year) • Excellent source of home-grown protein • Can fix up to 150kg/N/ha/year • Improves soil structure and fertility • Provides growth under environmental stresses • Produces consistent yields, even in dry years
Site • Can be grown on a range of soil types • Avoid fields prone to waterlogging or cold, clay soils
Establishment • Sow at a shallow depth: 1cm when soil temperature reaches 8˚C plus • Pure sward seed rate: 5-6kg/acre • Seed rate as part of a grass mix: 3kg/acre • Crop should be sown by end of August
Utilisation • Cut 2-3 times/year • Avoid turning hungry stock out onto red clover leys to prevent bloat issues • Only lightly graze red clover in the autumn and do not graze in the winter to avoid permanent damage to the crown • Ideal for finishing lambs during the summer period
Grass & Roots 2021
53
