Ladino white clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial legume known for its high-protein forage, soil-improving nitrogen fixation, and excellent palatability for wildlife and livestock. It is commonly used in deer food plots, pastures, and erosion control. Its ability to thrive in cool, moist climates makes it an ideal low-maintenance forage crop. Inoculated with an NOP compliant seed treatment for maximum germination.

Benefits for Wildlife Habitat

✔ High protein (25–30%) forage for deer, turkey, and rabbits.
✔ Spreads by stolons, providing long-term ground cover.
✔ Fixes nitrogen to improve soil fertility.
✔ Tolerates heavy grazing and regenerates quickly.
✔ Attracts pollinators and supports biodiversity.

Planting Guidelines for Ladino White Clover

• Planting Times:

  • Spring (March–May) – Ideal for early establishment.
  • Fall (August–October) – Best in southern regions for strong root development before winter.

• Seeding Depth:

  • ¼ inch maximum – Shallow planting ensures proper germination.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 3–5 lbs per acre in well-prepared seedbeds.
  • Broadcast: 5–8 lbs per acre, followed by light cultipacking for good soil contact.

• Days to Maturity:

  • 60–90 days – Can be grazed or browsed within 8–12 weeks after planting.

• Height at Maturity:

  • Typically grows 8–14 inches tall, spreading via stolons.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate – Performs best in moist conditions but can tolerate short dry spells.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • High – Thrives in moist, well-drained soils and tolerates periodic flooding.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Moderate to High – Can grow under light to moderate shade, making it ideal for woodland edges.

Fertilization Guidelines for Ladino White Clover

• Soil pH: Prefers a range of 6.0–7.0 for optimal growth.
• Nitrogen (N): Minimal nitrogen is needed as it fixes its own nitrogen.
• Phosphorus (P): 30–50 lbs P₂O₅ per acre for strong root and bloom development.
• Potassium (K): 40–60 lbs K₂O per acre for plant vigor and disease resistance.

Fertilization Timing:

• Apply phosphorus and potassium before planting based on soil tests.
• Annual maintenance fertilization in early spring or fall ensures continuous growth.

Herbicide Use for Ladino White Clover

• Weed Management:

  • White clover is slow to establish, so weed control is essential during early growth.

• Pre-emergence Herbicides:

  • Prowl H2O (Pendimethalin) – Controls annual grasses and some broadleaf weeds.
  • Imox (Imazamox) – Selective control of broadleaf weeds and grasses.

• Post-emergence Herbicides:

  • Clethodim (Select Max) – Controls grassy weeds without harming clover.
  • 2,4-DB (Butyrac 200) – Suppresses some broadleaf weeds while keeping clover safe.

Key Considerations:

• Avoid glyphosate unless applying before planting.
• Mowing helps manage weed pressure in established plots.