Crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) is one of the
most colorful forage plants and is frequently seen along roadsides,
where it is planted for highway beautification. Crimson clover is a
reseeding winter annual with an erect growth habit and a shallow taproot
system. The flowers are a brilliant red color, elongated in shape, and
often more than two inches long. The leaves are dark green and covered
with dense hairs. Adaptation
Crimson
clover is best adapted to the heavier, well-drained soils, performing
poorly on dry, sandy, and poorly drained sites. Crimson clover produces
more forage at low temperatures than other clovers. It is fairly
tolerant of soil acidity and is often seeded in mixture with small
grains and ryegrass. Crimson clover is also often seeded into
warm-season perennial grass pastures (bermudagrass and bahiagrass) and
may reseed under some management conditions. Planting Crimson Clover Seed
Crimson
clover seed should be planted at 20 to 26 pounds of seed per acre. Most
improved crimson clover varieties are adapted to Florida conditions,
but they vary in spring maturity. Seeds germinate in the fall, and
plants produce very little top growth while developing a strong root
system, so very little forage is available for grazing before February. Grazing
should be delayed until 6-8 inches of growth accumulate. Terminate
grazing when plants are 3-5 inches in height. Crimson then grows rapidly
until flowering begins about mid-April. Forage is very high quality
with both leaves and stems readily consumed. Although it is generally
grazed, it may be harvested as high-quality hay or silage. If trying to
manage for reseeding, reduce grazing pressure for about three weeks when
in full flower
|