Crimson Clover (C&I)

Crimson Clover (C&I) is a versatile cool-season legume known for its vibrant crimson flowers and rapid nitrogen fixation. As an upright winter annual, it thrives in cool, humid climates, making it an excellent choice for cover crop rotations in crops like corn, soybean, wheat, and cotton. Not only does it improve soil health by fixing nitrogen, but it also prevents erosion and enhances soil structure.

• Fast Nitrogen Fixation: Crimson Clover is a highly effective nitrogen fixer, adding valuable nitrogen to your soil, which improves fertility for subsequent crops.

• Soil Health & Erosion Control: The deep taproot and fibrous roots of Crimson Clover improve soil structure, increase water infiltration, and prevent erosion, making it ideal for soil building.

• Forage & Grazing Crop: In addition to its cover crop benefits, Crimson Clover provides high-quality forage for livestock, adding another layer of value to its use.

Type: Legume
Season: Cool Season

Seeding & Growth

Precision: Not recommended
Drilled: 12 lb/A, 1/4" to 1/2" deep
Broadcast: 15 lb/A
Aerial: 18 lb/A

Dates: Anytime after last threat if spring frost, Seed 6-10 weeks before avg first frost

Avg seeds/lb: 149,800
Inoculate: Pre-Inoculated
Emergence: 3-7 days
Height: 12"-20"
Inter-seeding: Yes, ask a specialist for details
Drought and Heat: Fair heat and drought tolerance
Flooding: Does not tolerate flooding or ponding

Frequently Asked Questions: Crimson Clover (C&I)

What makes Crimson Clover ideal for nitrogen fixation?

Crimson Clover is an excellent nitrogen fixer due to its symbiotic relationship with soil microbes, specifically rhizobia bacteria. This relationship allows Crimson Clover to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and improving soil fertility naturally.

Can I use Crimson Clover in both agricultural and ornamental settings?

Yes, Crimson Clover is versatile. While it’s widely used in agricultural settings as a cover crop, it also provides aesthetic value with its vibrant crimson flowers, which attract beneficial pollinators. This makes it a great option for landscaping or ornamental gardens while benefiting your soil.

How does Crimson Clover benefit my soil during the winter?

As a winter annual, Crimson Clover helps prevent soil erosion by providing a strong root system that holds soil in place during harsh winter rains or winds. Additionally, it continues to fix nitrogen, enriching the soil over the winter months and preparing it for the next planting season.

When should I plant Crimson Clover for the best results?

Crimson Clover should be planted 6 - 10 weeks before the average first frost in your area. For the best establishment, plant it anytime after the last threat of spring frost.

What are the main benefits of Crimson Clover as a cover crop?

Crimson Clover provides several key benefits for soil health:

• Nitrogen Fixation: It adds valuable nitrogen to the soil, reducing your need for synthetic fertilizers.

• Soil Building: The deep taproot and extensive fibrous roots help improve soil structure and increase water infiltration.

• Erosion Control: Crimson Clover provides effective erosion control by creating a dense root system that holds soil in place.

Is Crimson Clover suitable for grazing?

Yes, Crimson Clover is an excellent forage crop for grazing. It provides high-quality forage for livestock, making it a dual-purpose crop for improving soil health and feeding animals.

Can I buy Crimson Clover seed in bulk?

Yes, we offer Crimson Clover seed in a variety of quantities to suit both small and large-scale planting needs, including bulk options.