Management of clover swards will influence their establishment and persistency. Paddocks containing clover should be grazed tightly (3.5cm to 4cm) before closing, while taking care not to poach swards.

Grazing tight allows light to penetrate to the base of the clover plant, which will promote survivability of stolons (creeping stem that spreads along the base of the ground) over the winter. Leaving heavy covers will stifle persistency by leaving clover in a vulnerable position to compete with grass plants next spring.

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Options for grazing surplus grass and catch crops

Sheep management: fat covers

Sheep management: breeding progress