The growth habit of red clover varies from erect to prostrate. Numerous stems with large trifoliate leaves arise from the crown region each year. Red clover has a thick tap root which grows to a length of 24-36 inches. Lateral roots which arise from the tap root are mainly concentrated in the upper 5 inches of the soil. Small ovoid, pinkish, nitrogen fixing nodules can be found on the lateral roots if it is actively incorporating atmospheric nitrogen into protein nitrogen.
Adapted Varieties Look for good disease resistance and persistence in a red clover variety.
Varieties which are resistant to both Northern and Southern Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew are recommended for use throughout the states. There are several red clover varieties marketed in Pennsylvania that have been bred for better persistence. With proper management, you can expect these varieties to persist for two to three years after the establishment year. Refer to the current Penn State Forage Trial Report for red clover variety performance and resistance information. Red Clover Establishment Red clover can be established as a pure stand, with or without a companion crop, seeded with forage grass, or sod-seeded into a grass sod to improve the existing stand.