MGF Clovers
Red Clovers
Red clover is a great addition to pastures or hay fields! As a legume, it is capable of fixing nitrogen to help the performance of grass companions. Traditional medium red is a biennial (meaning that it typically survives for only two years). Some new varieites are bred to persist for three or four years. For best results, red clover should be frost seeded in February - March or planted March - May 15 or August 15 - September 15.
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Seeding Rate: 15 pounds per acre for a pure stand. 4-8# in mixes or for overseeding
Seeding Depth: 1/4" - 1/2"
Cautions: too high of rate can be difficult to dry down for dry hay. Can cause bloat, so manage appropriately. Leave at least 2" of stubble for regrowth.
White Clovers
White clovers are a valuable perennial legume in pasture and wildlife situations. White clover can be frost seeded in February or March or drilled from March 15 - May 1 or Aug 15 - Sep 15. White clover seed is very small, so consider using a carrier.
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Seeding Rate: 6-8 pounds per acre for a pure stand. 1-3# in mixes or for overseeding
Seeding Depth: 1/4"
Cautions: White clover can cause bloat in livestock. Can also cause slobber in equine animals. White clover typically handles shade and wet soil better than other varieties. It is very slow to dry, so it is typically not a good option for hay.
Other Clover Options
Clover FAQs
Why is coated clover cheaper than raw?
Unlike corn or soybeans, which are sold by the seed count, clover is sold by the pound. When coating is added, it becomes less dense, meaning you get fewer seeds per pound! For example, pure red clover seed is typically around 220,000 seeds per pound. With a coating on it, you typically get 150,000 seeds per pound!
Should I change the rate between coated and raw clover seed?
University trials have shown that there is little difference in final stand when using the same rate of coated or raw clover seed. This is because coated clover seed typically has a higher percentage of plants that establish.
What is the benefit of coated seed?
Coated seed contains a limestone based polymer to help the seed draw moisture to germinate and establish. Most legume coatings also contain inoculant. The inoculant helps to establish beneficial bacteria that can improve the plant's nitrogen fixation.
Can I use coated seed if I am organic or transitional?
No - unless the OMRI logo is on the tag! Always remind your supplier each time you order so that they can help make sure you get raw seeds or OMRI approved products?
Why are your coatings not OMRI?
OMRI coatings typically cost $.10 - $.30 more per pound. We typically offer a "raw" version for those that are organic or transitional. We don't have the warehouse capacity to carry another coating option, and do not feel that it is fair for conventional producers to face an upcharge.