Variety traits

Protein content — Red clover

Trifolium pratense L.

The crude protein content in the dry matter of red clover typically ranges from 13–14% to 18% or higher, depending directly on the growth stage, cultivar, and cultivation conditions.

In the reference 36 varieties crop Red clover, where this is mentioned in the description.

The protein concentration in the plant is distributed unevenly: in leaves and inflorescences, it reaches 13.5–18.0% and 15.5%, respectively, whereas in stems, it constitutes only 2.8–6.2%. Maximum protein levels are achieved when harvesting at the stem elongation to early flowering stage, whereas delayed harvesting leads to stem lignification and leaf loss, which results in a sharp decrease in nutritional value.

Modern evaluation of protein quality in this crop takes into account not only quantitative indicators but also the solubility of fractions in the rumen, as an excess of soluble protein (over 45–50%) reduces the efficiency of nitrogen utilization by animals. To increase the protein productivity of clover, it is necessary to provide optimal phosphorus-potassium nutrition, as well as apply micronutrients such as boron and molybdenum, which stimulate nitrogen fixation in root nodules.

General information about the subject — on the page Protein content.

Sources8

Varieties of Red clover mentioned in the description

Selection based on the description text, not on official evaluation: these data are absent from registers. For specific variety details, please refer to its profile.

Viva

Active

Trifolium pratense L. · Red clover

Poljoprivredni Institut Osijek, HR

1 record

Kachna

Withdrawn

Trifolium pratense L. · Red clover

Malopolska Hodowla Roslin Spolka z o.o.

1 record

Titus 71

Terminated

Trifolium pratense L. · Red clover

Saatzucht Steinach GmbH (DE)

1 record