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WILL white clover variety
we have had a few requests for information about WILL clover so i am
passing the following along for your information.-
WILL, a New Ladino Clover Available for late winter plantings.
"WILL" is the name of a new ladino clover which was developed and jointly released by
NCSU and USDA. Will is the result of some long-term breeding work completed during the
early to mid 1980's by Dr. Will Cope. Dr. Cope retired in 1985, and the variety was named
in his honor to recognize his contributions.
The major selection criteria was to find a variety which would persist longer and yield more
than ones currently available. Dr. Cope was especially looking for virus resistance, and
tolerances to alfalfa weevil, clover root curcullio and drought; all of the things which cause
white clover to disappear from stands too soon.
WILL is a widely adapted, large leaf variety which should be persistent in a wide range of
conditions. Performance data from NC and Georgia indicate that it is more persistent and
higher yielding than other available varieties. It has done well in tests in Pennsylvania and
Mississippi. WILL should be the best clover choice for overseeding pastures this fall and
next winter. Because of its upright growth habit, it will be more competitive in laxed grazing
or haying situations. However, it will tolerate close grazing, especially in a "controlled"
rotation where animals are removed from the paddocks to allow recovery of the clover and
the associated grass.
Cascade International Seed Company of Aumsville, OR (800-826-6799; 503-749-1822) is
the producer and marketing agent for WILL. Seed prices may vary, depending on shipping arrangements and volume, but will retail for $3-$3.50 per
lb.
All seeds will be coated with Apron (fungicide), inoculant, some minor elements (iron,
molybdenum and lime. Be aware that pre-inoculated seeds should be planted within a
short time of treatment, or there is some chance that the bacteria will be dead.
Clover is very important to the livestock producer, especially if cost of production is key to
success. Adding clover to grass pastures is not necessary every year, but even if it were it
would be a cost effective practice. The benefits are just too many to ignore, especially
when endophyte infected fescue makes up large part of pasture acreage. Putting 2-4
lbs/acre of clover into grass pastures is a good investment when one considers the
improved animal performance, yields and seasonal feed supply.
consider giving this one a try anytime white clover is to be planted
this year.
jg
James T. Green, Jr
Professor & Extension Specialist
Pastures & Forage Crops
Crop Science Department
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC 27695
Phone: 919 515 2390
Fax: 919 515 5855
e-mail: jim_green@ncsu.edu