Red Clover

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RED CLOVER MANAGEMENT

THE ESTABLISHMENT OF RED CLOVER

Soil health is key for the establishment and growth of red clover. It is best suited to well-draining soils with a target soil pH of 6.0-6.5, which is essential for its performance.

Red clover requires suitable levels of phosphate and potassium in the soil with it being particularly responsive to potash. Carrying out a soil analysis before establishment will ensure pH, P and K are at suitable levels to achieve optimum growth. Red clover can fix its own nitrogen from the atmosphere and has no requirement for bagged nitrogen. At times, small quantities can be applied in the spring to encourage early grass growth, but should be avoided at establishment.

There should be a minimum of 5 year rotation between red clover crops to avoid the potential of Sclerotinia and stem eelworm.


DRILLING CONDITIONS

The drilling period for red clover is ideally between April and August depending on moisture levels and soil temperatures, which should be at a minimum of 10°C. Drilling outside this period may lead to a poorer clover population.

When drilling, ensure a fine, firm seedbed is prepared beforehand. Broadcasting is the most effective method of drilling, followed by a roll afterwards to guarantee good seed to soil contact. Direct drilling can be used as well, however, the seedbed has to be clean, and drilling should not exceed a depth of 1cm, ideally 0.5cm to 1cm.


GRAZING MANAGEMENT

Rotational grazing is the best system for maximising livestock performance and maintaining clover health and population. It allows red clover time to recover and ensures the vigour is not lost.

The clover should be grazed at 10-15cm with livestock moved on once it has been grazed down to 5-7cm. Avoid grazing in late autumn, this will allow the plant to go into the winter healthy and ensure a strong start in the spring.

Introduce stock slowly to a rich clover sward and consider having another source of fibre, especially if they have come off an older pasture, to minimise the risk of bloat.


CUTTING MANAGEMENT

Cut red clover between 7-10cm to ensure there is good regrowth, as cutting too low can impact the plant’s performance and recovery.

Depending on the climate, you can cut every 5-6 weeks.

When cutting, ensure you leave the red clover to wilt for long enough, 30-40% dry matter should be the target. This is due to the high moisture levels in red clover, which can impact the fermentation process.

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