Red Clover Growing Guide
Short-lived perennial legume widely used as a nitrogen-fixing cover crop, green manure, and forage. Fixes 100-175 kg N/ha per year through Rhizobium symbiosis.
Growing Conditions
Soil Requirements
Soil Type & pH
Best soil types: loam, clay loam, silt loam
pH range: 6 - 7.5 (optimal: 6.5)
Drainage: moderate
Nutrient Needs (N-P-K)
Planting Guide
Yield & Economics
Common Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
- clover root weevil
- clover seed weevil
- aphids
Common Diseases
- clover rot
- powdery mildew
- northern anthracnose
Use to identify issues early and prevent crop losses.
Growing Tips
Inoculate seed with appropriate Rhizobium strain before planting, especially in fields without recent clover history, for maximum nitrogen fixation.
Terminate cover crop at early bloom stage for best nitrogen contribution to the following cash crop.
Red clover can be frost-seeded into standing winter grain in late winter for easy establishment without additional tillage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Red Clover take to grow?
Red Clover typically takes 90 days from planting to harvest. Seeds germinate in about 7 days. The best planting season is spring, late summer.
What soil does Red Clover need?
Red Clover grows best in loam, clay loam, silt loam soil with a pH of 6-7.5. Moderate drainage is required.
What temperature does Red Clover need?
Red Clover grows best at 10-25°C. Frost tolerance: high. Heat tolerance: low.
What is the expected yield for Red Clover?
Red Clover yields approximately 8,000 kg dry matter/hectare under good conditions. Multiple harvests per year are possible (3).
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