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Old Cobblers Farm™ Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil
$100.00
Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil
Seed Type & Composition: Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil
Empire Birdsfoot Trefoil is a premium perennial legume seed valued for its nitrogen-fixing ability, adaptability to poor soils, and high-quality forage production. This deep-rooted legume thrives in variable soils and challenging environments, making it an excellent choice for pastures, erosion control, soil stabilization, and sustainable forage systems.
Its unique seed composition is selected for resilience, persistence under grazing, and superior forage quality. The nitrogen-fixing properties of Birdsfoot Trefoil reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers while enhancing biodiversity and soil health. Its ability to establish dense ground cover makes it effective for erosion control on slopes and marginal lands.
Key Attributes:
Nitrogen-fixing perennial legume
Adaptable to poor, acidic, or poorly drained soils
High-protein forage; non-bloating for livestock
Erosion control and soil improvement
Compatible with pastures, hayfields, and cover cropping
Typical Seed Label Information
| Metric | Specification |
|---|---|
| Purity (%) | ≥95% pure Birdsfoot Trefoil |
| Germination Rate (%) | ≥80% |
| Weed Seed (%) | ≤0.5% |
| Other Crop Seed (%) | ≤0.5% |
| Inert Matter (%) | ≤2% |
| Origin | Regionally adapted U.S. sources |
| Lot Number | Batch-specific identifier |
| Test Date | Germination & purity certification |
| Net Weight | Commonly sold in 1 lb, 5 lb, 25 lb bags |
Geographic Suitability & USDA Zones
Primary Regions: Northern U.S., Central U.S., Canada, Europe
Adaptability: Thrives in temperate zones, poor soils, and regions with variable drainage
USDA Zones: 3–9
Ideal Climates: Cool-temperate climates with moderate rainfall
Sunlight Adaptability
Best Performance: Full sun to partial shade
Recommended Sunlight: 4–8 hours daily
Shade Tolerance: Moderate
Soil Compatibility
| Soil Type | Performance |
|---|---|
| Clay | Acceptable if well-drained; prefers improved aeration |
| Loam | Optimal growth, best drainage and nutrient access |
| pH Range | 6.0–7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic) |
| Drainage | Essential for preventing root diseases |
Watering & Drought Requirements
| Phase | Watering Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Establishment | Keep moist but not waterlogged; critical for germination |
| Post-Establishment | Moderate drought tolerance; thrives with moderate rainfall or periodic irrigation |
| Drought Tolerance | Strong once established due to deep taproots |
Germination Time & Growth Pattern
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Germination Time | 7–14 days under optimal conditions; up to 21 days in cooler soils |
| Ideal Soil Temp | 60°F–75°F |
| Initial Growth | Slow establishment; requires weed management early |
| Root System | Deep, extensive roots aiding drought tolerance |
| Mature Habit | Low-growing mat with upright stems; up to 2 feet tall |
| Bloom Period | Bright yellow flowers from late spring to early summer |
Mowing & Maintenance
| Task | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Mowing Height | Maintain ≥3–4 inches if mowing |
| Mowing Frequency | As needed, generally post-flowering to encourage regrowth |
| Watering | Required mainly during establishment or prolonged drought |
| Fertilization | Phosphorus & potassium based on soil test; avoid high nitrogen |
| Weed Control | Essential during establishment phase |
| Pest & Disease Monitoring | Watch for aphids, root rot; use integrated pest management |
Foot Traffic Durability & Recovery
| Factor | Performance |
|---|---|
| Durability | Low for heavy traffic; better suited for light grazing or low-traffic areas |
| Recovery Rate | Moderate with proper rest periods; sensitive to overgrazing |
| Management | Best in rotational grazing systems or mixed swards |
Best Planting Time
| Season | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Early Spring | Preferred in northern climates with cool, moist conditions |
| Late Summer/Early Fall | Suitable in temperate climates for fall establishment |
| Avoid | Mid-summer planting in hot, dry conditions |
Quantity