Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Tuff Turf Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil

Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil – a resilient perennial legume seed for forage, pasture, erosion control, and soil enrichment. High-protein feed, nitrogen-fixing, drought-tolerant, and sustainable. 

Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a premium perennial legume seed prized for its adaptability, soil-improving properties, and superior forage quality. Unlike many forage crops, this non-bloating legume provides safe, high-protein feed for livestock while also enhancing soil fertility through natural nitrogen fixation.

Known for its resilience, Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil thrives in temperate regions, tolerates a wide range of soils, and performs exceptionally well in poor or acidic conditions. Its deep-rooting system ensures drought tolerance, erosion control, and long-term persistence, making it a reliable option for pastures, hay production, and land conservation.

With bright yellow flowers, soft trifoliate leaves, and a dense, mat-forming habit, this legume not only nourishes livestock but also supports pollinators and contributes to sustainable land management.

Key Features

High-quality perennial legume forage seed

Fixes nitrogen naturally to enrich soils

Non-bloating, safe, and nutritious for grazing animals

Thrives in USDA zones 3–9 and temperate climates

Excellent drought tolerance with deep root system

Bright yellow flowers attract pollinators

Effective for erosion control and ground cover

Performs well in poor, acidic, and low-fertility soils

Nutrient Profile

Protein Content: High-protein forage, ideal for livestock nutrition

Nitrogen Fixation: Improves soil fertility naturally

Non-Bloating: Safe for continuous grazing compared to alfalfa

Nutrient Requirements: Low nitrogen input; benefits from phosphorus & potassium

Persistence: Long-lasting perennial, tolerant of cold and heat (not extreme)

Best Uses / Plant Types

Pasture improvement and forage for cattle, sheep, goats, and horses

Hay production and mixed forage systems

Soil stabilization and erosion control on slopes and roadsides

Cover cropping and biodiversity support

Pollinator-friendly habitat with nectar-rich flowers

Benefits & Performance

Provides safe, high-quality grazing without bloat risk

Enhances soil structure and fertility through nitrogen fixation

Adapts to poor or acidic soils where other legumes fail

Improves long-term sustainability with reduced fertilizer needs

Attracts bees and pollinators, supporting biodiversity

Withstands drought and variable rainfall conditions

How & When to Apply

Planting Time: Early spring or late summer to early fall

Soil pH: Best in 6.0–7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Seeding Rate: 8–10 lbs/acre in pure stands; 2–4 lbs/acre when mixed with grasses

Seeding Depth: ¼–½ inch (shallow planting required)

Watering: Maintain moisture during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature

Maintenance: Rotational grazing or periodic mowing recommended

Why Choose Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil

Premium-grade, carefully tested seed lots

High germination and purity rates

Trusted by farmers for sustainable pasture management

Multiple packaging sizes for home gardeners to commercial farmers

Expertly selected for adaptability, persistence, and performance

Ideal For

Farmers and ranchers seeking safe, high-protein forage

Landowners focused on soil fertility and erosion control

Gardeners and conservationists creating pollinator habitats

Sustainable agriculture and regenerative farming projects

Available Sizes

5 lb bag – great for small yards or overseeding patches

10 lb bag – ideal for medium lawns

15 lb bag – perfect for larger residential lawns

20 lb bag – best for professional landscapers and parks