EPDS III: Arrowleaf clover for finishing lambs; is it as good as it looks?

Summary

Legumes like clover play a vital role in pasture systems by naturally fixing nitrogen, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and providing high-protein feed for livestock. Among these, Arrowleaf Clover has recently gained attention within PPS member farms for its ability to boost nitrogen levels and support lamb weight gain, despite agronomic advice cautioning against its use as a single-variety pasture. However, current usage lacks scientific validation, prompting the need for a structured investigation.

This EPDS project aims to demonstrate and quantify the benefits of Arrowleaf Clover when used as a single or predominant pasture variety. Through multi-site trials over several years, PPS will measure dry matter production, feed quality, lamb growth rates, nitrogen levels, and regeneration potential. The project will also explore low-cost establishment methods, soil adaptability, and its role in reducing herbicide use and possibly influencing CO₂ emissions. The outcome will provide producers with robust data to make informed decisions about integrating Arrowleaf Clover into their pasture systems for improved sustainability and productivity.

Objectives

Aim: To demonstrate the use of Arrowleaf Clover as a single or predominate variety in soils suited to its use.

Objectives:

1. Measure dry matter production to ascertain the potential pasture mass of Arrowleaf
2. Collect pasture quality data to assess its value as a pasture feed
3. Assess potential lamb growth on Arrowleaf pastures and do comparison with other pastures
4. Measure and compare nitrogen levels between Arrowleaf and other legume varieties
5. Demonstrate the method of Arrowleaf establishment through low cost practices
6. Explore the use of Arrowleaf in a range of soil types
7. Quantify reduced weedicide use in the preparation for crops or new pasture which follow an Arrowleaf pasture
8. Explore the proposition that Arrowleaf may assist in CO² emission from pastures (J Court; pers comm.)

Progress

This project aims to demonstrate the value and establishment methods of arrowleaf clover in pure and mixed swards. Both 2024 and 2025 have been challenging dry seasons in southwest Victoria. 2024 saw poor growth and seed set of arrowleaf at sites that were sown. The dry 2024 spring was followed by a very late (June) break in 2025 which was challenging for pasture establishment. However, all sites did have reasonable arrowleaf establishment albeit slow to provide much growth. 

The spring is far better than 2024, with some good pasture growth recorded in the district but looking to a quick end. As arrowleaf is a late grower, contribution to pasture feed has been slow, so measurements began later than expected. Following feed quality and composition over late spring and summer should provide some good data on the feed value in a dry year. The project is co-funded by MLA and Agriculture Victoria and run by the Perennial Pastures Systems group with Agriculture Victoria.