Overview of Trifolium subterraneum L.
Trifolium subterraneum L., also known as subterranean clover, underground clover or sub clover, is a species of clover that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. Over time, it has been introduced to other parts of the world and is now widely cultivated as a forage crop, particularly in Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.
Appearance of Trifolium subterraneum L.
Subterranean clover can grow up to 50 centimeters in height and has a shallow root system that allows it to grow in areas where other plants may not thrive. Its leaves are trifoliate, with three oval leaflets that have a distinctive V-shaped mark, and its small white flowers grow in clusters at the end of long stems. The flowers are followed by small, cylindrical pods that contain the seeds.
Uses of Trifolium subterraneum L.
Subterranean clover is primarily grown as a forage crop for livestock, as it is highly nutritious and palatable. The plant's small size makes it an ideal food source for grazing animals, and it has been found to improve the productivity and health of livestock. It is also used as a cover crop to protect soil against erosion and to improve soil fertility, as it is able to fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. Additionally, subterranean clover has a range of medicinal properties and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including coughs, wounds, and gastrointestinal issues.
Common Names for Trifolium subterraneum L.
Subterranean clover is also known by a number of common names in different parts of the world. In Australia, it is often called simply "sub clover," while in New Zealand, it is known as "underground clover." Other common names include "hubbard clover," "tom cat clover," and "buried clover."
Light Requirements
Trifolium subterraneum L. prefers full sunlight to grow and thrive. The plant needs at least six hours of direct sunlight to maintain its growth and produce a good crop. With low light intensity, the plant becomes weak and prone to diseases and pests attack.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Trifolium subterraneum L. is between 15°C and 25°C. The plant can tolerate higher temperatures, but extended exposure to temperatures above 30°C can be detrimental to the growth and yield. Additionally, the plant is susceptible to cold damage and can be killed by frost or temperatures below -2°C. Hence, the plant is best suited for Mediterranean climates.
Soil Requirements
Trifolium subterraneum L. prefers well-drained and fertile soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant can grow in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 8.5. However, it thrives best in soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Also, the plant can grow in soils with a low level of available water, making it suitable for areas with low rainfall. Heavy soils are not suitable for the plant's growth as they can suffocate the roots.
Cultivation Methods
Trifolium subterraneum L. is a low-growing, perennial plant that is commonly grown in pastures and forage systems in regions with a Mediterranean climate. It prefers well-draining soils that are moderately fertile and can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soils. Planting can be done in the fall or early spring by broadcasting the seeds and raking them into the soil surface. The seeds should be sown at a rate of 10-15 pounds per acre.
Watering Needs
Trifolium subterraneum L. has moderate water needs, and it can tolerate short periods of drought. However, water stress can reduce plant growth and seed production significantly. It is recommended to provide regular watering in the absence of rainfall during the growing season to maintain optimum soil moisture content. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth and minimize weed competition.
Fertilization
Trifolium subterraneum L. is not a very demanding plant in terms of fertility requirements. It can grow in soils with low to moderate fertility levels. However, adding nitrogen fertilizer in the form of ammonium nitrate or urea can increase plant growth and improve forage quality. It is recommended to apply 50-100 pounds of nitrogen per acre per year as a split application in spring and fall. The plant can also benefit from the addition of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer to the soil.
Pruning
Trifolium subterraneum L. does not require pruning unless it has become overgrown or damaged. If pruning is necessary, it should be done during the late fall or early spring to avoid damaging new growth. The plant should be pruned back to a few inches above the ground level to encourage bushier growth in the next season. Pruning can also be done to remove old or diseased plant material and to control the spread of the plant if necessary.
Propagation of Trifolium subterraneum L.
Trifolium subterraneum L., commonly known as subterranean clover, can be propagated through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used for propagating Trifolium subterraneum L. The seeds can be collected from mature plants during the harvesting season. The collected seeds need to be cleaned, dried, and stored properly to maintain their viability. The germination rate of the seeds decreases with time. Hence, the seeds should be sown in the fields as soon as possible after harvesting. They can also be stored in a cool, dry place for future use.
Vegetative Propagation
Trifolium subterraneum L. can also be propagated through vegetative means such as stolons, tubers, and rhizomes. Stolons are creeping stems that root at the nodes and produce new plants. Tubers are fleshy underground storage structures that produce new plants. Rhizomes are horizontal underground stems that can produce new plants.
However, vegetative propagation is not commonly used for Trifolium subterraneum L. as it is a self-pollinating plant, and the genetic variability is low.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is a propagation method where a part of the plant, such as stem or leaf, can be cut and planted in a soilless medium to produce a new plant. However, Trifolium subterraneum L. is not propagated through cuttings as it is difficult to establish roots through this method.
Thus, seed propagation remains the most viable and commonly used propagation method for Trifolium subterraneum L.
Disease Management for Trifolium subterraneum L.
Trifolium subterraneum L., commonly known as subterranean clover, is a highly nutritious forage plant that is often affected by several diseases. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This disease is characterized by black, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and pods. To manage this disease, it is essential to maintain good sanitation practices. This involves removing crop debris after harvest, crop rotation, and planting resistant cultivars.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by several fungi and is characterized by yellowing and wilting of the foliage, stunted growth, and root decay. To manage this disease, it is essential to ensure good drainage, avoid waterlogging, crop rotation, and use of fungicides.
- Fusarium Wilt: This disease is characterized by wilting and yellowing of the foliage, stunted growth, and root and stem rot. To manage this disease, it is essential to ensure adequate soil drainage, crop rotation, and planting resistant cultivars.
Pest Management for Trifolium subterraneum L.
Subterranean clover is prone to pests such as:
- Aphids: These pests are characterized by the presence of a sticky residue on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage aphids, it is important to use insecticides, biological control agents, and crop rotation.
- Red Legged Earth Mites: These pests feed on the foliage, resulting in discoloration and death of the leaves. To manage them, it is important to use miticides, introduce natural enemies such as predatory mites, improve soil moisture, and plant resistant cultivars.
- Lawn Armyworms: These pests feed on the foliage, resulting in defoliation and stunting of the plant. To manage them, it is important to use chemical controls, natural predators such as birds, and cultural practices such as crop rotation and planting resistant cultivars.
