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    GrassLopata

    Berseem Clover

    Produces very large amount of biomass; good weed suppression

     

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    Berseem Clover cover crop legume is a summer/winter annual legume known for its ability to tolerate waterlogged soils and soil salinity, while providing higher protein levels than many other legumes. Most berseems winter kill in northern climates (hardy to USDA Zone 8– about 15–20 F), however Frosty Berseem Clover legume brings improved winter-tolerance.

     

     

    CHARACTERISTICS:

    Non-Forage Benefits:
    1 = Poor; 5 = Excellent

    Compaction Alleviation: 2
    Weed Suppression: 4
    Biomass Production: 3
    Erosion Control: 4
    Disease/Pest Control: 1
    Pollinator/Beneficials: 3
    P & K Cycling: 4
    Ease of Establishment: 4

    Nitrogen Fixer/Scavenger: Fixer

    Nutritional Value:
    Values Vary Greatly Depending on Maturity

    Crude Protein: 18
    NEL¹ Mcal/lb.: .73
    ADF%²: 23
    NDF%³: 36
    TDN: 69
    DM Tons/Acre: 1-2.5
    Days to First Harvest: 60
    Days to Next Harvest: –

    ¹- Net Energy for Lactation = Energy available after subtracting digestive and metabolic losses
    ²- Acid Detergent Fiber = Low values mean more digestible
    ³- Neutral Detergent Fiber = Low values mean cows can eat more

    Ranking (Good, Better, Best):
    Graze: Good
    Baleage: Best
    Chop: Better

     

     

    SEEDING:

    Planting Time:
    Mar.-Apr.;Aug.-Sept.

    Seeding Rate:
    Mono (lbs./acre): 8-20
    Mix (lbs./acre): 5-10
    Forage (lbs./acre): 15-20

    Seeding Info:
    Carbon/Nitrogen Ratio (C:N): 15:1-20:1
    Seeding Depth (in./with drill):  1/4
    Seeds/lb.: 150,000
    Bulk Density (lbs./ft.³): 52
    Aerial Application Rate: 6-15
    Germination Soil Temp.: 40 F
    USDA Hardiness Zone: 8
    Days to Emergence: 5-8

     

     

    MANAGEMENT:

    Considerations
    Berseem clover has a moderate tolerance to salinity and can withstand short periods of waterlogged soils. Berseem clover is sensitive to weed competition and as a result should only be sown on clean, well-prepared seed beds.

    At 18-28% protein, young berseem clover is comparable to or better than crimson clover or alfalfa as feed. No cases of bloat from grazing berseem clover have been reported. Forage quality remains acceptable until
    the onset of seed production.

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    • Produces very large amount of biomass; good weed suppression
    • Highly nutritious (18-28% protein)
    • Non-bloating legume
    • More saline tolerant than alfalfa or red clover (pH 4.8-7.8)
    • Tolerates waterlogged soil
    • Initial growth is slow, but then grows fast -expect forage to be ready in about 8 weeks