A Comparison of Birdsfoot Trefoil and Ladino Clover under Varying Irrigation and Fertility Levels¹

Abstract

Synopsis Increasing frequency of irrigation gave a marked response with Ladino clover, but not with birdsfoot trefoil. Part of the response of Ladino clover was attributed to a better medium on irrigated plots for the regeneration of clover stands which were depleted from winterkilling. Birdsfoot trefoil did not respond to irrigation because of the presence of a shallow water table within reach of birdsfoot trefoil roots. Frequent irrigations resulted in decreased stands of birdsfoot trefoil which were accompanied by an ingress of weeds.

Performances of Six Grass Species under Different Irrigation and Nitrogen Treatments1

“…Six grass and 2 legume species were seeded in 1956 for evaluation of their responses to 5 nitrogen and 4 irrigation treatments. Performances of the 2 legumes ( birdsfoot trefoil and Ladino clover) have been reported ( 1), and only data pertaining to the grass species are reported herein.…”

Yields of Irrigated Grass and Legume Pasture Mixtures in the Northern Rocky Mountain Area1

“…The superiority of Ladino clover over birdsfoot trefoil shown in these studies does not always occur. We have compared these two legumes in numerous pasture trials with variable results (4,8,9). Ladino clover usually yields more than birdsfoot trefoil if irrigation water is plentiful but less if water is limited (4).…”

“…We have compared these two legumes in numerous pasture trials with variable results (4,8,9). Ladino clover usually yields more than birdsfoot trefoil if irrigation water is plentiful but less if water is limited (4). Winter injury often reduces Ladino clover stands and when the degree of reduction is large Ladino clover yields less than birdsfoot trefoil.…”