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White Clover: A Comprehensive Guide
Overview
White clover (Trifolium repens) is a widely distributed herbaceous perennial that is often found in lawns and meadows. It is a member of the pea family (Fabaceae) and is known for its spreading habit, forming dense mats across the ground.
Characteristics
- Common Name: White clover
- Botanical Name: Trifolium repens
- Plant Type: Herbaceous perennial
- Mature Size: 0.25-0.50 ft. tall, 1-1.50 ft. wide
- Sun Exposure: Full, partial
- Soil Type: Well-drained, moist
- Soil pH: Acidic
- Bloom Time: Spring, summer
- Flower Color: White
- Hardiness Zones: 3-10 (USDA)
- Native Area: Europe
Benefits
- Nitrogen-fixing: White clover is a nitrogen-fixer, meaning it can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is usable by plants. This makes it a valuable companion plant for other crops.
- Drought tolerance: White clover is more drought-tolerant than many turfgrasses, making it a good choice for areas with limited water availability.
- Low maintenance: White clover requires minimal care, including infrequent mowing and no need for fertilizer.
- Erosion control: The dense mats formed by white clover help to hold soil in place, preventing erosion.
Drawbacks
- Invasiveness: White clover can spread aggressively, potentially becoming a weed in some areas.
- Toxicity to horses: While the white clover plant itself is non-toxic, it can harbor a fungus that is toxic to horses.
Types of White Clover
In addition to the wild plant, there are several improved varieties of white clover available, including:
- Micro clover: Sh shorter, with smaller leaves
- ‘Atropurpureum’: Sports chocolate-brown foliage with green margins
- ‘Dragon’s Blood’: Bears tricolored leaves (green, red, and white)
Propagation
White clover can be propagated by several methods:
- stolons: Cuttings of stolons (runners) can be planted to create new plants.
- seeds: White clover seeds can be sown directly in the soil in spring or summer.
Growing from Seeds
- Rake the soil to prepare the seedbed.
- Scatter the seeds evenly over the area.
- Water the seeds thoroughly.
- Keep the area moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes 2-10 days.
Care
White clover is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care:
- Watering: Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilizing: White clover does not require fertilizer.
- Mowing: Mow infrequently, only when necessary to control its spread.
Common Pests and Diseases
White clover is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by:
- Clover root rot: A fungal disease that causes the roots to rot.
- Clover aphids: Small, green insects that feed on the leaves.
- Clover mites: Tiny, reddish-brown mites that feed on the plant sap.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How fast does white clover grow? White clover grows quickly, spreading by stolons and producing new plants.
- When does white clover bloom? White clover blooms in the spring and early summer.
- Does white clover attract butterflies? Yes, white clover is a popular food source for butterflies and other pollinators.
- Is white clover a weed? White clover can be considered a weed in some areas due to its invasive tendencies. However, it can also be beneficial as a ground cover and nitrogen-fixer.
