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.