EVALUATION OF BIRDSFOOT TREFOIL: I. Compatibility of Lotus corniculatus L. with other legumes and grasses

Four tests were conducted on three soil types, at Ottawa, Ont., and Ste. Anne de la Pocatière, Que., to study the comparative behaviour of birds-foot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus L.) in various mixtures. Data show that birdsfoot trefoil was more persistent than alfalfa in long-term leys on imperfectly drained soils. It also persisted longer than ladino or alsike clovers on the two soil types where these crops were compared. Data confirm previous findings that it possesses very little competitive ability. Accordingly, to reduce competition, birdsfoot trefoil should be used in simple mixtures with non-aggressive species. Timothy seemed generally to be the best companion grass. Red clover should be used with great care since it has a marked detrimental effect on its contribution to the crop. Preliminary results suggest the value of an orchardgrass-birdsfoot trefoil mixture in dry habitats.