Beemaster's International Beekeeping Forum

BEEKEEPING LEARNING CENTER => GENERAL BEEKEEPING - MAIN POSTING FORUM. => Topic started by: biggraham610 on August 12, 2015, 01:19:43 AM

Title: Sweet Clover
Post by: biggraham610 on August 12, 2015, 01:19:43 AM
I hear rave reviews, I have some Idle acreage I am thinking about working up and trying some. Couple questions from those of you that have used it. First, is there a preference, white or yellow, or a mix? Second, I will be planting in the fall. I assume I would use the same planting methods I use for my other legumes, white dutch, alfalfa, sanifoin etc? Third, is it like them, will it come back for several years, or will i have to replant it every year or two? What is the maintenance for best production, and lastly, is it fine near a hayfield, no horse toxins? Thanks. Graham
Title: Re: Sweet Clover
Post by: Eric Bosworth on August 12, 2015, 06:11:08 AM
The only part of that I can answer is about it coming back. Here it grows wild in my lawn and pretty much any field. Once you plant it I am not sure how to get rid of it. I have this argument with my wife who wants it out of her flower garden.
Title: Re: Sweet Clover
Post by: Colobee on August 12, 2015, 10:42:30 AM
Clover has been used here, for at least decades, because the roots quickly help stabilize recently worked soil ( like hi-way projects, etc.). It has a nice strong bloom. I think the color is mostly preference. Most of what I see is yellow, but patches of white can be seen, her & there. It comes back, year after year, and is difficult to get rid of.

My observation is that the clover is great, but rather short lived, 4-6 weeks, depending on the rains. The clover has come & gone, here, while the alfalfa is still hanging on.
Title: Re: Sweet Clover
Post by: biggraham610 on August 12, 2015, 10:54:06 AM
Seems Trefoil is a good option. I am in exploration mode. Once the grounds worked up and ready, then I will be in panic mode........... :grin:
Title: Re: Sweet Clover
Post by: Michael Bush on August 12, 2015, 04:22:29 PM
The yellow blooms first.  The white blooms next.  If you plant some Hubam, it will bloom next.  And the give out it he same order.  Plant all three.  The hubam is an annual which will bloom every year if you let it go to seed.  The yellow and white are biennials and will need to be planted every year for two years.
Title: Re: Sweet Clover
Post by: biggraham610 on August 12, 2015, 09:12:59 PM
Thanks for the advice yall. G