Crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) is a cool-season annual legume widely used as a cover crop, forage, and wildlife food plot. Known for its vibrant red blooms and ability to fix nitrogen, it provides multiple benefits for wildlife, soil health, and as a rotational crop. The seeds of crimson clover are highly attractive to deer, turkey, and small game, making it a popular choice for wildlife food plots. Inoculated with a NOP compliant seed treatment for maximum germination.

Benefits for Wildlife Habitat

✔ High-protein seeds that attract deer, turkeys, and small mammals.
✔ Attractive flowering plants provide early-season forage and pollinator habitat.
✔ Fixes nitrogen, improving soil fertility for subsequent crops.
✔ Ideal for late winter and early spring food plots when other food sources are scarce.
✔ Excellent for soil erosion control and enhancing soil health due to its nitrogen-fixing ability.

Planting Guidelines

• Planting Times:

  • Fall (August–September): Best planting time for winter cover crops and early spring forage.
  • Spring (March–April): Can also be planted for spring forage and quick-growing wildlife plots in milder climates.

• Seeding Depth:

  • ¼ to ½ inch deep for optimal germination and seedling development.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 15–20 lbs per acre for uniform stands.
  • Broadcast: 20–25 lbs per acre, followed by light dragging or cultipacking to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.

• Days to Maturity:

  • 70–90 days for full growth, typically reaching bloom in about 60–75 days and becoming mature by late spring or early summer.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate – Crimson clover can tolerate drought conditions, but it requires consistent moisture for the best growth, especially during establishment.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Low to Moderate – Prefers well-drained soils but can tolerate short periods of wet conditions. However, prolonged saturation may hinder growth.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Low – Performs best in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade, particularly in cooler climates.

Fertilization Guidelines for Crimson Clover

• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0–7.0.
• Nitrogen (N): As a legume, crimson clover is capable of fixing its own nitrogen, so it typically requires little to no added nitrogen. Excess nitrogen can reduce flowering and seed production.
• Phosphorus (P): Apply 20–40 lbs P₂O₅ per acre based on soil test recommendations to encourage strong root development and early growth.
• Potassium (K): Apply 30–60 lbs K₂O per acre if potassium levels are low to ensure healthy growth and seed production.

Fertilization Timing:

• Apply phosphorus and potassium before planting based on soil tests.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen applications, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flowering.

Herbicide Use for Crimson Clover

• Weed Management:

  • Weed control is crucial during establishment, as crimson clover can be outcompeted by aggressive weeds in its early growth stages.

• Herbicide Options:

  • Pre-emergence: Herbicides like Prowl H2O (Pendimethalin) or Treflan (Trifluralin) can help control grasses and broadleaf weeds before planting.
  • Post-emergence: 2,4-D can be applied selectively to control broadleaf weeds without damaging crimson clover.

Key Considerations:

• Follow all herbicide labels for proper timing and application to avoid damage to the clover.
• Mowing or manual weed control can reduce the need for herbicides, especially in established plots.