What sets Big Trefoil apart from all other legume crops (even from Birdsfoot Trefoil) is the extreme growing conditions in which Big Trefoil can grow.

Big Trefoil can grow well in soils that would be too poor for other legumes.  Lotus can withstand (and thrive) on soils that:

• are waterlogged (constant moisture).
• have high aluminum (>3umols Al).
• have high acidity (4.5-5 pH)
• have high manganese (up to 0.76g/kg DM)
• possess little fertility ("fragipan-type" soils)

Big Trefoil may be seeded using traditional crop methods.  Broadcasting or aerial overseeding has also been shown to be effective, especially in areas where conventional tillage would be difficult or impossible (such as in a forestland or area for wildlife).

Standard seeding is in the Fall or Spring.  Seeding rates are usually 2-3 pounds per acre, but increasing this amount leads to a larger stand so it is not unusual for producers to plant up to 5 pounds per acre.

Big Trefoil is often planted with companion grasses when it is to be used for pasture or forage. Rates are usually about 2-5 pounds of Trefoil for every 5-15 pounds of grass seed depending upon the species used.   Contact us for more information on this.