Clover: Origins, Farm Benefits, Soil Requirements, and the Role of Fine Particle Lime
Grow Better Clover
PFP Fertiliser Prills lift soil pH where clover roots need it, boosting nitrogen, growth, and pasture performance—fast-acting, long-lasting results.
Clover is one of the most valuable pasture species in temperate agriculture, known for fixing nitrogen, boosting pasture performance, and improving livestock nutrition. Understanding its origins and needs helps farmers maximise benefits year after year.
Origins of Clover
Clover (Trifolium spp.) originated in Europe and Central Asia, spreading over time to temperate regions worldwide. In New Zealand, white (T. repens) and red clover (T. pratense) dominate pastures. Clover thrives here because it tolerates grazing, spreads via stolons, responds to fertility, and complements ryegrass.
Farm Benefits of Clover
Natural Nitrogen Fixation Works with Rhizobium bacteria to fix 100–200+ kg N/ha/year, reducing fertiliser needs.
Improved Feed Quality Higher protein, digestibility, and energy support better milk production and lamb growth.
Seasonal Growth Performs well in late spring and summer when ryegrass slows.
Enhanced Soil Structure Deep taproots improve porosity, water infiltration, and break up compaction.
Support for Pasture Diversity Adds resilience against climatic variability.
Ideal Soil Conditions for Clover
Clover is sensitive to soil acidity. Optimal pH is 6.0–6.5. Below 5.8, nodulation, nitrogen fixation, and growth decline, while aluminium toxicity rises and nutrient availability falls. Maintaining pH is key to clover persistence and performance.
How Fine Particle Lime Helps
Fine particle lime (micro-fine, high ENV) reacts faster than standard lime, lifting pH where clover roots are active. Benefits include:
Faster pH Correction Better nodulation and nutrient availability within weeks.
Even Soil Distribution Consistent pH across the root zone.
Improved Nutrient Availability Phosphorus, sulfur, molybdenum, and calcium become more accessible.
Better Grazing Performance Dense, vigorous clover recovers quickly and fixes more nitrogen.
Higher Efficiency Higher ENV means more lime reacts fully, making it cost-effective.
Clover’s productivity depends on well-balanced soils with stable pH. Fine particle lime is an effective way to lift soil pH, enhance nodulation, and support long-term pasture performance. For farmers aiming to improve pasture quality and reduce fertiliser costs, maintaining soil pH with high-quality lime is a smart investment.