The following data summarize the results of the Ohio State University birdsfoot trefoil performance trial seeded in 1992 at Northwest Branch. Forage yields in 1996 were well below average due to winter injury, poor weed control and below average rainfall throughout the growing season. Final stand ratings show dramatic differences in persistence among varieties. This trial was discontinued after the 1996 growing season.
Birdsfoot trefoil is more tolerant than other forage legumes of soils which have low pH (tolerates as low as pH 5.0), moderate to somewhat poor soil drainage, marginal fertility, and fragipans. It is not as productive as alfalfa on well-drained, fertile soils with high pH, but it will out yield alfalfa on marginal soils. It can withstand several weeks of flooding. It also tolerates periods of moderate drought and heat. It is resistant to insects and produces forage of excellent quality. Birdsfoot trefoil normally outlives red clover by several years. Stands can last for many years if managed to allow natural reseeding. Natural reseeding is especially important in southern Ohio where birdsfoot trefoil stands are generally short-lived. Birdsfoot trefoil is an ideal pasture legume. It has excellent grazing tolerance, high forage quality, good palatability, and does not cause bloat in grazing animals.
*Yield data for the 1996 harvest is not an accurate account of birdsfoot trefoil forage, for most plots were over taken by heavy weed pressure and poor stands due to winter injury. A final stand count was taken on 9/23/1996 to help clarify the differences between varieties as a better measure than the yield data to assist in variety selection.
Birdsfoot trefoil varieties have traditionally been classified by
growth habit. Empire-type varieties have prostrate growth and fine
stems, and are thought to be better adapted to grazing. The variety
Empire is a prostrate-type variety. European-type varieties are more
erect, establish faster, and regrow faster after harvest. Thus, they are
well suited to hay production, but are also very suitable for rotational
grazing. Viking is an erect European-type variety. Most of the newer
varieties are intermediate with semi-erect to erect growth habit.
| Birdsfoot Trefoil Varieties in Ohio Trials. | |
|---|---|
| Varieties | Marketer |
| AU Dewey | International Seeds,Inc. |
| Carroll | Public |
| Dawn | Deere Creek Seed |
| Empire | Public |
| Fergus | Deere Creek Seed |
| Georgia I | Deere Creek Seed |
| Norcen | Public |
| Viking | Public |