Red Clover & Lucerne available
In recent years there has been resurgence in the growing of perennial forage legumes, particularly Red Clover and Lucerne. This was originally stimulated by the growth in organic farming, but conventional farmers saw the benefits in yield, protein content, low N use, drought tolerance and improved soil structure. Their use has continued to grow, especially in drier areas of the UK. The option within CAP reform to grow legumes as a form of Ecological Focus Areas has further boosted interest. The benefits of Red Clover and Lucerne are listed in the columns below. There are some drawbacks and rotational limitations to both crops, but they can be grown in rotation with each other.
