At least part of the differences in experience with honey bees and red
   clover, results from different cultivars of red clover.
 
   Here in northern British Columbia and prairie provinces of Canada, red
   clover is usually one of the winter hardy, late flowering or
   "single-cut" (for hay) cultivars. Often, not always, this red clover is
   worked by honey bees and can have large nectar production.
 
   As I understand it (but have no experience) the early flowering,
   "double-cut" cultivars (greater herbage yield) may be less attractive to
   honeybees. (Perhaps these cultivars have larger corolla tubes, etc).
 
   Of course, attractiveness and usage of a plant by honeybees depends on
   alternative nectar sources, and growing/weather conditions.
 
 
   Kerry Clark, Apiculture Specialist
   B.C. Ministry of Agriculture
   1201 103 Ave
   Dawson Creek B.C.
        V1G 4J2  CANADA          Tel (604) 784-2225     fax (604) 784-2299
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