Alice White Clover

White clover is a perennial legume which spreads through the sward by branching stolons. Like all other legumes, such as Alfalfa and Red clover, it has the ability to produce its own nitrogen through a symbiotic process with Rhizobium bacteria in the root nodules. White clover is mainly used in grazing pastures for its high nutritive value (both protein and minerals).

Alice fixes much more Nitrogen than the traditional white clovers and it is more palatable. It is estimated that the Alice White clover fixes up to 200 units of Nitrogen per acre.

Characteristics of Alice White clover

- Very palatable
- High Nitrogen fixation
- Good winter hardiness
- Large leaves
- Tall vigorous growth
- Performs extremely well under grazing management

White clover and bloat

If a ruminant eats too much white clover, there is a chance of bloat. Bloat is caused by the production of both gas and foam in the rumen of the ruminant, caused by a surplus of protein. This combination can lead to the death of the bloating animal. In order to prevent bloat, a maximum of 40 percent white clover in a pasture should be respected. If the animals are fed other non-bloating forages (e.g. hay, corn, cornsilage) besides the clover, the risk of bloat significantly decreases. Most accidents occur with following herds, like heifers, dry cows or sheep that don't get other forages besides grass and white clover.

Planting & Management

Alice White clover is a perfect companion with Perennial ryegrass but also works well with Orchardgrass and Tall fescue. For combinations with Italian and Annual ryegrass, Red clover is a better choice.

Alice White clover can be planted in the fall, at least 8 weeks before killing frosts. A better way of planting in the Northern regions is frost seeding in the early spring. When planted with the grass, 3 pounds to the acre is sufficient. For frost-seeding, 4 pounds per acre is recommended.

White clover does well on most soil types, however, the pH of the soil is rather important. The pH should be at least 6.0, adequate levels of calcium, phosphorus and potash are also very important.

Price: $125 (25 pounds)