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Video: Everything you need to know about bird's-foot trefoil for meadows and pastures
Video: Everything you need to know about bird's-foot trefoil for meadows and pastures

This video presents the characteristics and benefits of bird's-foot trefoil as a forage plant.

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Written by Maxime Leduc
Updated over a week ago

This video from the My Forage System channel discusses the characteristics and benefits of corniculate tree (Lotus corniculatus) as a fodder plant for meadows and pastures.

Key points:

  • Performance and adaptation: Corniculate tree is a productive plant that adapts to a variety of soils, including those that are poorly drained. It is resistant to drought and disease.

  • Nutritional value: Corniculate tree is rich in proteins and minerals, and it offers good digestibility for animals.

  • Impact on parasites: The corniculate tree seems to reduce the presence of parasites in animals, in particular the potato leafhopper.

  • Synergy with alfalfa: Corniculate lottis combines well with alfalfa in fodder mixtures, improving the production and quality of fodder.

  • Effects on fermentation: Corniculate lottis positively influences fermentation in the rumen of animals, reducing ammonia production and improving feed efficiency.

  • Impact on animal health: Corniculate lottis seems to have a positive effect on animal health, reducing bloating and digestive problems.

  • Pasture Management: Corniculate tree is adapted to grazing and can be used in rotation with other grasses.

  • Yields: Studies have shown that corniculate lottis can produce yields equivalent to or greater than alfalfa under certain conditions.

  • Weed resistance: Corniculate grass is competitive with weeds, reducing the need for herbicides.

  • Implantation: Corniculate tree requires acidic soil and good drainage for a successful implantation.

  • Sowing: It is recommended to sow corniculate lottis at a rate of 10 to 17 kg/ha.

  • Harvest: The first cut can be done when the plants reach 8 to 10 cm in height. The following cuts can be made when the plants are in full bloom.

  • Management of reserves: It is important to leave sufficient reserves for the corniculate tree to ensure its winter survival.

  • Conclusion: Corniculate tree is a promising fodder plant with numerous advantages for meadows and pastures. It offers an attractive alternative to alfalfa and can contribute to improving animal production and health.

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