(Trifolium resupinatum) is a high-yielding, cold-tolerant (down to)
annual legume, ideal for grazing, hay, and forage, with a fast, radish-like root system suitable for sandy or wet soils. It fixes significant nitrogen, offers high protein (18-24%), and attracts wildlife with a fragrant aroma.
Key Characteristics and Benefits
- Rapid Development: Establishes quickly with excellent early vigor, similar to cereal rye.
- Soil Fertility: Fixes approximately 90 lbs of nitrogen and helps break up compacted soil.
- High Palatability: Highly digestible with hollow stems, making it excellent for livestock and wildlife, particularly deer.
- Weed Suppression: High-shading capability helps manage weeds.
- Versatility: Highly tolerant of wet, poorly drained soils, yet performs well in sandy conditions.
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Disease Resistance: Offers a potential alternative to clover sickness.
Planting Details
- Seeding Rate: Drilled at 5–8 lbs per acre, or broadcast at 8–10 lbs per acre.
- Timing: Often planted as a fall cover crop.
- Termination: Recommended to cut before flowering for maximum nitrogen benefit.
Key Considerations
- Bloat Risk: Like many clovers, it can cause bloat in livestock if not managed properly.
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Fragrance: Known for having a strong, sweet aroma, which is attractive to bees and wildlife.
eNhance is often considered superior for sandy soils compared to typical Persian clover varieties, and it offers better cold tolerance than standard clover varieties.