Balsana Clover is one of our favorite clovers to plant. We have only used it in recent years in either our testing plots or our own hunting plots but quickly became believers. Based on our results and heavy deer usage we now include it in several of our blends. We are excited for you to experience the same results we have seen.
It is a strong annual clover that has several great benefits. It is fast growing and tolerates a wide range of soils making establishing it very easy on most properties. It handles browse pressure extremely well and is nutritious for deer with protein levels around 25%. You can potentially get great results up to 2 to 3 tons per acre when planted alone.
Your soil will also appreciate you planting this variety of clover. With a long taproot that can grow up to 18” deep it helps to break up soil compaction and improve water infiltration. Since it grows fast it does a great job of suppressing weeds. Like other annual clovers it is a strong nitrogen fixator so is a great choice for a spring planted plot that you can till or disk under before planting brassicas that will utilize the nitrogen made available from the decomposing clover.
Compared to other annual clovers it does a great job of handling colder temperatures. It is a great addition to either a cereal grain or brassica planting for fall hunting plots. We have seen deer digging thru the snow to gain access to this clover variety well after hunting season has ended in Michigan. We recommend 4 pounds per acre for extra diversity when planting with either cereal grains or brassicas.
It even does well in drier conditions for making it a great year long planting when established in the Spring.
Planting rate is 6 to 8 pounds per acre.
Balsana Clover can be planted in Spring or Fall (45 days ahead of the first frost in your area).