Alsike Clover Seed

Trifolium hybridum L.

Alsike clover is used for hay, pasture, and soil improvement, and is preferred where very wet or acid soils are encountered. It is an introduced, short-lived, non-creeping perennial with a growth habit similar to red clover. Alsike is usually planted with grasses for pasture and hay in areas where other high yielding legumes are not adapted.

Alsike clover is adapted to a wide range of soil types and grows well in northern latitudes and at high elevations. It survives severe winters and performs best where summers are cool. It grows well on soils that are too acidic for red clover (pH < 6.0) and can tolerate more alkalinity and wetter soils than most clovers. Alsike does not tolerate droughty sites but will tolerate completely waterlogged soils and will withstand spring flooding up to six weeks. It is not shade tolerant. 

Seeding information: Zones 3-5; annual in wet soils in zones 6-7. Seed at a rate of 4-6 lbs./acre (straight) or 2-4 lbs./acre (mix), 1/8"-1/4" deep, August-September. Broadcast or drilled seeding methods are preferred, and optimal germination temperature is >40 degrees F at night. 

Harvest: when 90% of the seedheads are brown. Seed yields average 400-500 lbs./acre.