Alsike Clover

Growing

When sowing Alsike clover, your best results come from preparing a clean area free of competing weeds. This legume thrives when planted alongside grasses like timothy or brome, which provide essential structural support. Because the stems are thin and prone to reclining or lodging, these companion grasses help keep the clover upright and prevent the mat from packing too tightly after mowing. This airflow is vital for ensuring the plant dries thoroughly during the haymaking process.

As a low-growing mat, this clover is excellent for suppressing weeds and can be managed with regular mowing. If you are using it for forage, aim to maintain a balance where the clover makes up a significant portion of the stand. While it is quite hardy and can withstand much wetter, more acidic soils than red clover, you should be mindful of its impact on animals. It can cause bloat in livestock, so introduce it to animals gradually.

To ensure a successful stand, avoid planting it in the shade of tall-statured grasses, as it prefers full sun. When the flowers are in full bloom, the plant is ready for harvest. You can continue to harvest nutritious hay over an extended period, but do not wait until the seed heads are too ripe, as this can lead to issues for livestock.