This cool-seasonperennial legume gets its name from its seed pods that are arranged in the shape of a bird's foot. It is a winter hardy legume that will last for several years in northern regions. In the mid-west and south it is susceptible to root and crown rot and usually lasts no longer than 2 years. It is very sensitive to high temperatures and therefore, is not a good choice for the deep south. Birdsfoot trefoil has an average protein content of 16% to 20%. It is highly preferred by deer and can be easily over-grazed if planted on small acreage plots.
Birdsfoot trefoil site requirements
Birdsfoot trefoil will grow under a wide range of soil conditions. It is best adapted to well drained soils but it will tolerate poorly drained conditions, as well as drought. Best forage production is achieved when soil pH is between 6.2 and 7.0, but it will grow on sites with pH as low as 4.5. Birdsfoot trefoil fixes nitrogen, but it will typically require annual applications of low nitrogen fertilizer to encourage the best growth.
Varieties of birdsfoot trefoil
There are about 25 varieties of birdsfoot trefoil available. These varieties are separated into two types: Empire and European. Always select Empire types because they have fine stems, which means a low fiber content and better digestibility to deer. Avoid European types because they have large, fibrous stems. Two varieties of Empire type birdsfoot trefoil are Dawn and Empire.
Plant birdsfoot trefoil with other forages
Birdsfoot trefoil is most beneficial to deer when planted in a mixture with other cool-season forages. The following are suggested forage mixtures that include birdsfoot trefoil:
birdsfoot trefoil, red clover, and ladino clover
birdsfoot trefoil, red clover, ladino clover and forage chicory (alsike clover could be included in either of the above mixtures in food plots that have low, damp areas)
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