232 FORAGE CROPS 



superior, all things considered. Like corn, it is 

 adapted to a wide variety of soils, and, because 

 of its habit of growth, is always beneficial when 

 introduced into a rotation, aside from its par- 

 ticular value as a forage crop. While its best 

 use for most purposes is in connection with 

 other clovers and grasses, it is excellent as a 

 green forage plant, since it is very palatable 

 and contains the nutrients in such proportions as 

 to make it a well-balanced ration in itself, thus 

 serving to supplement pastures, as well as to 

 provide an excellent dry forage. 



While it may persist for three years, in prac- 

 tice it must be regarded as a biennial, the length 

 of life depending largely on its treatment and 

 the nature of the soil. It thrives best on deep 

 loamy lands, rich in humus, where, as a rule, it 

 stands longer than on light lands, although it is 

 well adapted to them and large crops are obtained 

 when well fertilized. 



Soils and manures 



Stiff clays, when properly tilled, are suitable 

 for red clover, although they should be well 

 drained to avoid any standing water. Dry, sandy 

 or hot lands are unfavorable, although they may 

 be very materially improved by liming or by the 

 use of marl. On loose lands and heavy clays, 



