AU Sunrise Crimson Clover Forage
AU Sunrise crimson clover was developed cooperatively by the USDA and Auburn University. It was specifically bred for early maturity. It is excellent for use as a habitat for pollinators and as a cover or green manure crop for conservation tillage and organic farming systems. In addition, it is a highly palatable and nutritious food source for grazing livestock and in wildlife food plots.
Uses: Cool season pasture forage to improve grazing or hay quality; wildlife food plots; green manure crop; cover crop for conservation tillage; organic farming; habitat for pollinators.
Sizes:
Planting:
Seeding Dates: Sept. 1 - Nov. 1 (Consult the local Extension Office for specific dates for the region.) Plant seed approximately 1/4 inch deep.
Rate: For pure stands: 20 - 25 lbs./A broadcast or 15 – 20 lbs/A drilled. In mixes: 12 – 15 lbs./A
Depth: ¼ - ½ inch
Method: Seed can be broadcast over a clean prepared seedbed or drilled in with a no-till planter equipped with a small seed hopper. If broadcast on a prepared seedbed, cover the seed with a light disking or press the seed into the soil with a culti-packer or similar roller device. Whether broadcasted or drilled alone or in mixes, seed should be placed at a maximum depth of 1/2 inch. Planting crimson clover seed too deep can result in stand failure.
Fertilizer: Soil testing is highly recommended. As a legume, AU Sunrise requires no commercial nitrogen fertilizer. Liming to a pH of 6.0-6.5 and providing adequate levels of potassium and phosphorus are necessary to ensure a productive clover stand. See your local county extension office for soil sampling assistance.
Inoculant: AU Sunrise seed come pre-inoculated with selected Rhizobia strains of bacteria for optimal root nodulation and nitrogen fixation.
Management:
Grazing: Begin grazing when clover growth reaches 6-8 inches in height. For maximum productivity and utilization, use a managed grazing system whereby a 10-20 day rest period is allowed between grazings. Note: Bloat can be a problem for animals on pastures with a large proportion (>35%) of clover. Bloat-preventative supplement materials are recommended.
For Conservation Use: When used as a green manure or cover crop for conservation tillage/organic production systems, terminate the crimson clover just prior to seed head development for maximum nitrogen benefit.
