Management of Subterranean Clover in Pine Forested Range

Abstract

Subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) is a cool-season forage legume that can be grown in the southeastern United States. Available varieties grow best on well-drained sites and tolerate acid soil conditions producing adequate forage without addition of lime if soil pH is 4.8 or higher. However, at least during the first few years, annual applications of at least 50 kg/ha of P2O5 and K2O are needed to maintain good production. In addition, summer growth of competing vegetation must be removed annually in late August or early September by heavy livetock grazing, use of herbicide, or close mowing. Unlike other clovers, subterranean will reseed even if heavily grazed during the flowering stage. Initial establishment under pine timber in the Southeast can be achieved by removal of hardwoods, prescribed burning, and broadcasting freshly inoculated seed on top of the soil in late October or early November when the soil surface is wet. Production of adequate forage before mid-winter remains a problem, especially if unregulated use by deer is heavy.