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Hale Habitat & Seed

Crimson Clover (pre-inoculated)

Crimson Clover (pre-inoculated)

Regular price $29.99 USD
Regular price Sale price $29.99 USD
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Crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) is a cool-season annual legume widely used as a cover crop, forage, and wildlife food plot. Known for its vibrant red blooms and ability to fix nitrogen, it provides multiple benefits for wildlife, soil health, and as a rotational crop. The seeds of crimson clover are highly attractive to deer, turkey, and small game, making it a popular choice for wildlife food plots. Inoculated with a NOP compliant seed treatment for maximum germination.

Benefits for Wildlife Habitat

High-protein seeds that attract deer, turkeys, and small mammals.
Attractive flowering plants provide early-season forage and pollinator habitat.
Fixes nitrogen, improving soil fertility for subsequent crops.
✔ Ideal for late winter and early spring food plots when other food sources are scarce.
Excellent for soil erosion control and enhancing soil health due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.

Planting Guidelines

  • Planting Times:

    • Fall (August–September): Best planting time for winter cover crops and early spring forage.
    • Spring (March–April): Can also be planted for spring forage and quick-growing wildlife plots in milder climates.
  • Seeding Depth:

    • ¼ to ½ inch deep for optimal germination and seedling development.
  • Seeding Rates:

    • Drilled: 15–20 lbs per acre for uniform stands.
    • Broadcast: 20–25 lbs per acre, followed by light dragging or cultipacking to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
  • Days to Maturity:

    • 70–90 days for full growth, typically reaching bloom in about 60–75 days and becoming mature by late spring or early summer.
  • Drought Tolerance:

    • Moderate – Crimson clover can tolerate drought conditions, but it requires consistent moisture for the best growth, especially during establishment.
  • Saturated Soil Tolerance:

    • Low to Moderate – Prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate short periods of wet conditions. However, prolonged saturation may hinder growth.
  • Shade Tolerance:

    • Low – Performs best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade, particularly in cooler climates.

Fertilization Guidelines for Crimson Clover

  • Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0–7.0.
  • Nitrogen (N): As a legume, crimson clover is capable of fixing its own nitrogen, so it typically requires little to no added nitrogen. Excess nitrogen can reduce flowering and seed production.
  • Phosphorus (P): Apply 20–40 lbs P₂O₅ per acre based on soil test recommendations to encourage strong root development and early growth.
  • Potassium (K): Apply 30–60 lbs K₂O per acre if potassium levels are low to ensure healthy growth and seed production.

Fertilization Timing:

  • Apply phosphorus and potassium before planting based on soil tests.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.

Herbicide Use for Crimson Clover

  • Weed Management:

    • Weed control is crucial during establishment, as crimson clover can be outcompeted by aggressive weeds in its early growth stages.
  • Herbicide Options:

    • Pre-emergence: Herbicides like Prowl H2O (Pendimethalin) or Treflan (Trifluralin) can help control grasses and broadleaf weeds before planting.
    • Post-emergence: 2,4-D can be applied selectively to control broadleaf weeds without damaging crimson clover.

Key Considerations:

  • Follow all herbicide labels for proper timing and application to avoid damage to the clover.
  • Mowing or manual weed control can reduce the need for herbicides, especially in established plots.
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Customer Reviews

Based on 2 reviews
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L
Leslee Ward

I received them pretty quickly planted them right away and I’d say 1/10 of the bag sprouted

R
Robert T.
Nice cover

Nice cover, but I bet 50 percent of the seeds have not germinated. Hopefully they are just slow learners...