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Medium Red Clover (pre-inoculated)

Medium Red Clover (pre-inoculated)

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Medium red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a  perennial legume commonly used for forage, soil improvement, and wildlife food plots. It provides high-protein forage for deer, rabbits, and other wildlife while also serving as a nitrogen-fixing cover crop to improve soil health. Inoculated with a NOP compliant seed treatment for maximum germination.

Benefits for Wildlife

High-protein forage for deer, turkey, and pollinators.
Nitrogen-fixing properties enhance soil fertility.
Attracts bees and beneficial insects as a strong nectar source.
Regrows after grazing or mowing, providing continuous forage.

Planting Guidelines for Medium Red Clover

  • Planting Times:

    • Spring (March–May) – Best for establishing a strong stand.
    • Fall (August–October) – Allows early root development before winter.
    • Frost Seeding (January–March) – Can be broadcast over frozen ground for natural soil incorporation.
  • Seeding Depth:

    • ¼ to ½ inch deep – Shallow planting is crucial for germination.
  • Seeding Rates:

    • Drilled: 8–12 lbs per acre in a well-prepared seedbed.
    • Broadcast: 12–15 lbs per acre, ensuring good soil contact.
  • Days to Maturity:

    • 60–90 days for full establishment, with peak production in the second year.
  • Drought Tolerance:

    • Moderate – Can withstand short dry periods but performs best with adequate moisture.
  • Saturated Soil Tolerance:

    • Moderate – Tolerates temporary wet conditions but not prolonged flooding.
  • Shade Tolerance:

    • Moderate – Prefers full sun but grows in partial shade.

Fertilization Guidelines for Medium Red Clover

  • Soil pH: 6.0–7.0 is ideal for maximum nitrogen fixation and productivity.
  • Nitrogen (N):
    • Minimal nitrogen required due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.
  • Phosphorus (P) & Potassium (K):
    • Apply 30–60 lbs P₂O₅ and 40–80 lbs K₂O per acre based on soil tests.
  • Lime Application:
    • If soil pH is below 6.0, apply lime to adjust acidity before planting.

Fertilization Timing:

  • Apply phosphorus and potassium at planting and annually based on soil tests.
  • Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it reduces the clover’s nitrogen-fixing benefits.

Herbicide Use for Medium Red Clover

  • Weed Management:
    • Effective weed control is critical during establishment to reduce competition.
  • Pre-emergence Herbicides:
    • Metribuzin – Provides early broadleaf weed control.
    • Pendimethalin (Prowl H₂O) – Controls annual grasses without harming clover.
  • Post-emergence Herbicides:
    • Clethodim (Select Max) – Controls unwanted grasses without harming clover.
    • 2,4-DB (Butyrac 200) – Controls broadleaf weeds with minimal clover impact.
    • Imazethapyr (Pursuit) – Can be used for selective weed control.

Key Considerations:

  • Mowing helps suppress weeds in early growth stages.
  • No-till planting into existing residue can reduce weed pressure.
  • Avoid using 2,4-D, as it may harm red clover stands.
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