🎉 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

A short-lived perennial legume with reddish-purple flower heads. Excellent nitrogen fixer producing 75-200 lbs N/acre/year. Deep taproot improves soil structure and drought tolerance. High protein forage reaching 15-20% crude protein.

Preferred Climate

Cool-season. Zones 4-9. Thrives in humid, temperate climates. Tolerates cold winters down to -20°F. Performs best with 30+ inches annual rainfall. Struggles in hot, dry summers.

The Science Behind It

Scientific Name

Trifolium pratense

Best Use

Hay production, pasture improvement, cover crop, green manure, pollinator support, wildlife food plots, erosion control

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.