🎉 SPRING SALE: Save up to 30% on All Seed & Fertilizer | Free Shipping Over $75

Old Cobblers Farm™ Wicked Tuff Turf Red Clover

Purchase

Product Overview

Description

Extremely fast-growing annual or short-lived perennial. Germinates in 5-7 days. High forage yields in short time. Excellent for quick cover. Can be aggressive - may compete with permanent species. Bright green, coarse texture.

Preferred Climate

Cool-season annual. Zones 5-11. Wide adaptation. Tolerates light frost but killed by hard freeze. Best in mild winters. Needs moisture for peak production.

The Science Behind It

Scientific Name

Trifolium pratense

Best Use

Winter cover crop, quick erosion control, temporary pasture, overseeding, nurse crop, green manure

Nutrients Available

Zones 4-9, Northeast, Midwest, Pacific NW

How to Apply

Plant red clover in early spring (March-April) or late summer (August-September) when soil temps are 50-65°F. Drill at 8-10 lbs/acre or broadcast at 10-12 lbs/acre. Frost seeding in February-March works exceptionally well - broadcast onto frozen ground and let freeze-thaw cycles work seed into soil. Seed depth should not exceed ¼ inch. Inoculation with Rhizobium trifolii is essential for nitrogen fixation. Expect germination in 14-21 days.

Graze or cut red clover at 3-4 inch minimum height to maintain stand vigor. First cutting typically comes at early bloom stage, about 60 days after spring growth begins. Allow 30-40 day rest periods between harvests. Red clover fixes 75-200 lbs nitrogen per acre annually, reducing fertilizer needs. Mix with timothy or orchardgrass to reduce bloat risk in cattle. Expect productive stands for 2-3 years before renovation is needed.