A preliminary evaluation of rose clover (Trifolium hirtum All.) and cupped clover (Trifolium chereleri L.) as pasture legumes in the cereal areas of the winter rainfall region

Abstract

The results of the first field trials with two relatively new pasture legumes. Trifolium hirtum and T. cherleri, introduced in 1966, are presented. The main aspects dealt with are adaptability to dry conditions, response to mechanical defoliation and their nutritive value. Results obtained thus far suggest that T. hirtum is a particularly valuable addition to the range of pasture legumes for the winter rainfall region, mainly because of its drought resistance and its ability to recover after defoliation.

Keywords: evaluations|clovers|pastures|legumes|cereals|winter rainfall|Stellenbosch|field tests|adaptabilities|dry conditions|defoliations|nutritive values|recoveries