The "Contea" crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum), also known as the Italian clover, is mostly grown as annual wintering plant in Central Europe. It is grown solely for pasture forage that one feeds the animals with in autumn or spring. These plants develop erect stems with a tendency to premature lignifying and hairy leaves. Therefore it needs to be mown rather quickly. One usually sows the Italian clover in autumn, as it starts to grow early in spring, spreading broadly and providing forage for grazing or material suitable for hay. Flowers of the here presented crimson clover constitute a premium source of nectar for the bees. Plants sown in spring bloom end of July / beginning of August, while those sown in winter already in May. You may also use this plant as efficient green fertilizer that improves soil structure and its fertility.

This species is recommended for growing on dry sites and on lesser soils, particularly the light, sandy-loam soils with a slightly acidic or neutral reaction. It does not belong to frost resistant plants and is therefore recommended for all regions with a milder climate. The "Contea" crimson clover is mostly sown purely as a winter after-crop, yet you may also sow it in mixtures with the annual Italian ryegrass or vetch. The first harvest from the spring sow would be possible only early in autumn, hence it is most commonly sown in autumn for spring harvests. You would need circa 20-30 kg of the crimson clover seeds for 1 ha of land.

One package contains 5 kg of the "Contea" crimson clover seeds. The sow-by date has been printed on the package.

• Use: pasture forage; green fertilizer;
• Flowering period: May or July - August
• Harvest time: autumn or spring
• Growth form: erect
• Flower colour: crimson
• Vegetation form: annual
• Foliage: trifoliate, hairy leaves
• Site: dry; light, sandy-loam soil with slightly acidic or neutral reaction
• Weight: 5 kg