White clover

Read our advice to help you learn about white clover. You’ll find information on the benefits of white clover and how to use white clover on farm.

White clover is a perennial legume, which suits both grazing and silage. It can increase yields by up to 15%, depending on clover content and nitrogen inputs.

The key to survival and production potential of white clover is its multi-branched creeping stem, called a stolon, which provides sites for new leaves, roots and flowers. The stolon also stores carbohydrates and proteins, meaning the plant can overwinter and regenerate in spring.

• Aim for 30% clover content of sward
• Choose a leaf size according to the class of animal and whether the ley is going to be short-, medium- or long-term

Read our advice on the benefits of using white clover, including feed value and soil structure.

Find out how to use white clover to benefit your system. See our tips on leaf size and grass/clover mixtures.  

If you would like to order a hard copy of the Establishing and growing clover guide, please contact publications@ahdb.org.uk or call 0247 799 0069.

The information in these web pages was sourced from Germinal, Grassland Development Centre (IBERS, University of Aberystwyth) and Charlie Morgan (GrassMaster Ltd).