Crimson clover is a fall-seeded nitrogen-fixing legume.
It is a top nitrogen producer (75-100 lbs. N/acre) when planted early and allowed to reach bud stage.
Seeding Rate (lbs. / acre)
- Drill: 12-20
- Broadcast: 15-20
- In a mix: 5-10
Crimson Clover Benefits & Info
- It is a semi-upright legume needing 6 weeks of growth in the fall before a killing frost.
- It performs well in mixes, especially with annual ryegrass and radishes.
- Overwintering likelihood increases with snow cover in northern climates.
- Crimson clover is easy to spring terminate.
- Its shade tolerance makes it suitable for inter-seeding.
- Crimson clover fields allowed to reach the flower stage have proven to be attractive to pollinators and beneficial insects.
- WATCH OUT – thick, dense stands have been known to attract voles and other unwanted pests.
Forage Considerations
- Crimson clover is a good option for hay/grazing, but it can cause bloat when unmanaged.