Crimson clover is a good choice for those who would like to use an annual clover as a cover crop. Crimson clover fixes up to 200 pounds of nitrogen per acre, and prefers well-drained, loam soils with good organic matter content for best results. The seeds and flowers are edible. Seeds can be sprouted and used in salads or sandwiches. They can also be dried and ground into flour. Flower heads can be used fresh or dried as a tea.
Sow in late summer so that plants can become established before cold weather comes. In cold climates, crimson clover can be planted in early spring instead of fall. Broadcast seed into cultivated soil so that the seeds are about 2 inches (5 cm) apart and one-half inch (1 cm) deep. No thinning is required. Flowers are frost-resistant down to 0 degrees F.
