Does your lawn look a little…tired? Maybe it’s patchy, or maybe you’re tired of the endless work that goes into keeping grass green. Many homeowners dream of a lush, low-maintenance yard, but the path to that perfect turf can feel overwhelming. Choosing the right clover can seem like a maze of different varieties and complicated instructions.
You want a lawn that thrives without constant watering and fertilizing, right? That’s where clover shines! However, not all clover is created equal. Picking the wrong type can lead to unexpected weeds or a yard that just doesn’t look right. We understand the frustration of investing time and money only to see disappointing results.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will show you exactly what clover can do for your yard, how to pick the best variety for your needs, and simple steps to get it growing strong. Get ready to transform your lawn into the envy of the neighborhood with less effort. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of lawn clover!
Top Clover For Lawns Recommendations
- Large capacity & high germination: 2 lbs. of white clover seed can cover up to 1,000 sq. ft. of land, making it easy to quickly create a lush green landscape, whether it's a patio, lawn, or garden. The Groundio selects high-quality seeds that are specially Nitrocoated and inoculated to ensure a high rate of germination and robust growth, guaranteeing planting results at the source
- Perennial & Easy to grow: Clover is a perennial plant suitable for growing in USDA zones 3-10, seeds can be buried 1/8 inch (3 mm) deep or sprinkled directly on the soil surface and lightly mulched. No special care is needed, germination occurs in 7-14 days, the plant is adaptable, grows in full sun or semi-shade, yields better in full sun, matures to a height of about 8-12 inches, suitable for pastures, lawns, gardens, and many other scenarios
- Nitrogen Fixation: White Clover has a strong nitrogen fixing ability, naturally enhancing soil fertility for sustainable cultivation. The dense foliage covers the ground, which regulates ground temperature, maintains soil moisture, and inhibits weed growth
- Attracts pollinators: Clover is not only pleasing to the eye when in bloom, it is also an ideal source of nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinating insects, which promotes pollination and fruiting of neighboring plants and contributes to the ecological balance; Clover is rich in protein, so it is also a natural fodder for cows, horses, and deer etc
- A garden must-have: Groundio White Clover is the perfect choice for your garden, easy to grow with not much time or effort, white flowers on green foliage, a lush natural beauty, whether used as a ground cover or planted between paving stones, clover is the ideal choice!
- PREMIUM QUALITY CLOVER SEED: This high-quality white clover seed is perfect for erosion control, creating a lush lawn alternative, and enriching pasture mixtures. Ideal for covering large areas, it serves multiple purposes including use in deer food plots, green manure crops, and ground cover, making it the most suitable white dutch clover seeds for lawn, garden and backyard.
- ADVANCED NITROCOATED & INOCULATED SEEDS - Specially treated to ensure superior germination rates and enhance soil health, these ground cover seeds promote robust plant growth. They naturally boost soil nitrogen by fixing nitrogen from the air into the soil, making them a great clover seed choice for any agricultural application.
- ADAPTABLE TO USDA ZONES 3-10 - Thriving in a wide range of climates, from full sun to partial shade, this white clover seed for lawns is suitable for various regions across the country. Whether you're in the north or south, this resilient clover ensures lush growth and reliable coverage, making it an excellent cover crop seed mix for drought resistant grass seed, red creeping thyme live plants & irish moss seeds.
- EASY & EFFECTIVE SEEDING: Simply disperse the white flower seeds on prepared soil, lightly rake them in, and keep them continually moist. Expect quick germination within 14 days at temperatures between 65-70F. With a seeding rate of 1/4 lb to 1/2 lb per 1,000 square feet or 8 to 10 lbs per acre, it’s ideal for large areas and bulk planting.
- OPTIMAL GROWTH & AESTHETIC APPEAL - Growing to a manageable height of 8-12 inches, this perennial clover seeds feature beautiful white blooms that enhance your landscape. It is a great choice for use as a flowering ground cover and a lawn patch alternative.
- O.M. Scott & Sons Clover Seed is crafted with premium strawberry clover which grows a naturally low-maintenance green space
- Strawberry clover stays greener longer during drought, and feeds itself by naturally converting nitrogen from the air into fertilizer, so you can spend less time on yard work and more time on yard play
- This clover lawn seed contains no added artificial or pest control ingredients, and it’s safe for use around people and pets (when used as directed)
- Apply in the spring or fall when the daily average temperature is consistently between 60°F and 75°F for two weeks; one 2 lb. bag covers 1,000 sq. ft.
- O.M. Scott & Sons products are packaged in a recyclable paper bag - apply the product to your yard then toss the bag in your curbside recycling bin where available
- Pennington turf grass with self-fertilizing white clover
- Establishes quickly and lasts for years - even on slopes and hills
- Grass and Clover Mix is pollinator-friendly
- Grows best in northern region of the US
- Plant in spring or early fall
- High Quality Seeds: 2 lbs. of red clover seed can cover up to 1,000 sq. ft. of land, providing a lush red landscape for your patio, lawn, or garden, the Groundio selects the highest quality seed, specially Nitrocoated and inoculated to ensure a high rate of germination and robust growth, guaranteeing planting results at the source
- Strong Adaptability: The crimson clover is highly adaptable to USDA zones 2-10, thrives in a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, and tolerates moderately acidic soils, which makes it an ideal groundcover plant, and it can also be seeded as a seed mix for other plants
- Easy to Grow : Clover is one of the easiest flower species to grow, seeds can be buried up to 1/4 inch deep in clay soil and 1/2 to 3/4 inch deep in sandy soil, germination occurs in 7-14 days, plants are highly adaptable and can grow in full sun or semi-shade, yields are better in full sun, matures to a height of about 12-20 inches, suitable for pastures, lawns, gardens, and a variety of other scenes
- Nitrogen Fixing: The roots of annual clover have a powerful nitrogen fixing ability, naturally enhancing soil fertility. The dense leaves cover the ground surface, which can regulate the ground temperature, maintain soil moisture, and inhibit the growth of wild grass
- Attracting Pollinators: The flowers of red clover are not only conspicuous and eye-catching, but also an ideal nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, which promotes the pollination and fruiting of the neighboring plants, and contributes to the ecological balance; and the clover is rich in proteins, and thus is a natural feed for animals such as cows, horses, and deer etc
- Natural beauty of three different flowers and lush growth, attracting honey bees, etc.
- Improves and protects soil, great green manure, compost/mulch, adds organic matter to soil.
- Great for use in garden & growth plots; nitrogen affixent, boosting soil fertility & health
- No weed seeds, no fillers, no coatings, no other crop seeds!
- Authentic Willamette Valley, Oregon USA grown seed (Non GMO and Weed Seed Free)!
- IDEAL LAWN ALTERNATIVE OR MIX-IN: Our miniclover seed is a trifolium repens that serves as a perfect alternative to traditional lawns or can be seamlessly blend with your existing grass. This variety of dwarf clover is a perennial, white clover which provides a lush and green landscape that reduces the need for frequent reseeding and intensive lawn care, ensuring a consistently dense and healthy yard.
- NITROGEN-FIXING ABILITY: Our mini clover seeds for lawn has the unique ability to pull nitrogen from the air and convert it into a usable form for plants, naturally fertilizing your lawn and promoting healthier, greener grass. The dense growth habit of our mini clover seed also helps prevent unwanted plants, keeping your lawn pristine.
- DROUGHT-TOLERANT & LOW-MAINTENANCE: You only need to add 2-5% of our microclover seed to your grass seed mixture to see significant improvements in lawn quality, making it a highly cost-effective solution. It is exceptionally low maintenance wear, and drought-tolerant, making it perfect for busy homeowners who want a beautiful lawn without the hassle of extensive upkeep.
- SMALL-LEAVED & LOW MOWING TOLERANCE: Our small-leaved, white clover seed features a very small leaf and only grows half as tall as white dutch clover (4-6 inches). It also produces stolons allowing it to spread evenly over the ground. It is highly tolerant to low mowing heights, so you can easily mow it down to achieve a neat and manicured look without damaging the live plants.
- SEASONAL FLOWERING: Outsidepride MiniClover will produce charming white flowers for about one month during the summer if it is not mowed, adding a touch of seasonal beauty and visual interest to your lawn. Each flower may attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. Our pelleted white clover seed be grown as ground cover and as perennials in USDA Zones 3-10.
- HIGH PROTEIN & NUTRIENT-RICH: Each of this Outsidepride clover seed blooms a Red crimson clover which offers a rich source of protein essential for the growth and health of whitetail deer and other wildlife animals such as the bee, rabbit, and butterfly, making them an ideal choice for forage and livestock pastures. Our clover seeds for deer can also be a part of clover seed food plot mix.
- VERSATILE & ADAPTABLE: Our Crimson clover seeds for lawn is perfect for hay production, cover crops, and enhancing soil quality when mixed with grasses. Our blooming clover seeds thrives in a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay, and is tolerant of medium soil acidity which makes it an excellent for use as , ground cover or winter cover crops seeds for garden.
- WINTER GRAZING & SOIL IMPROVEMENT: Our clover seeds for planting is an excellent late winter grazing crop when planted in the fall. Its crimson flower heads enhance soil texture, improving soil quality when used in conjunction with other cover crop seed mix options like rye grass, winter rye seeds cover crop or red clover seeds.
- NON-GMO & HEIRLOOM: Our non-GMO, open-pollinated crimson clover seed is coated and inoculated for optimal germination and growth, ensuring robust and productive plants. Ideal for those seeking clover seeds for lawn, ground cover seed, and perennial clover options.
- WILDLIFE MIXTURES & EASY SOWING: Sow at 1/2 - 3/4 lb per 1,000 square feet or 20 to 30 lbs per acre for best results, offering a high-quality, palatable cool-season forage for deer and other wildlife. They can be a great source of animal food grown right in your backyard.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Clover for Your Lawn
Clover is a fantastic addition to any lawn. It stays green even when the grass struggles. It also brings helpful insects to your yard. This guide will help you pick the right clover seed for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When buying clover seed, several features matter most. These features decide how well the clover grows and how long it lasts.
1. Seed Type and Variety
- Microclover (or Dwarf Clover): This type stays very short. It looks more like a traditional lawn. It does not need mowing as often. This is a great choice for a neat look.
- White Clover (Trifolium repens): This is the most common type. It spreads well and produces small white flowers. Bees love these flowers.
- Red Clover: This type grows taller. It is often used in fields or for wildlife. It is less common for small home lawns.
2. Inoculation Status
Good clover seeds come “inoculated.” Inoculation means the seeds are coated with bacteria. This bacteria helps the clover pull nitrogen from the air. Nitrogen helps the clover grow strong and green. Always look for inoculated seed.
3. Mix Contents
Check what else is in the bag. Some bags mix clover with grass seed. If you want a pure clover patch, make sure the bag says “100% Clover.” If you want to blend it, a mix might be better.
Important Materials and Seed Quality
The quality of the seed directly impacts your lawn’s success.
Seed Purity Percentage
This number tells you how much of the bag is actual clover seed. Aim for a purity level of 98% or higher. Lower purity means more weed seeds or filler material. You do not want to pay for dirt!
Germination Rate
The germination rate shows how many seeds will actually sprout. A high rate, like 85% or more, is what you want. This means most of the seeds you plant will grow into healthy plants.
Weed Seed Count
This is the flip side of purity. A good bag has a very low weed seed count. High weed counts mean you will spend more time pulling weeds later.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
How the seed is handled affects its strength.
Storage Conditions
Clover seed must be stored cool and dry. Heat and moisture ruin the tiny life inside the seed. Always buy seed from a reputable store that keeps its inventory well managed. Old seed grows poorly.
Coatings and Treatments
Some seeds have extra coatings for better water absorption or protection from fungus. These treatments often improve the initial growing success. However, make sure these coatings do not prevent the necessary nitrogen-fixing bacteria from working.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about why you want clover. This helps you choose the right product.
Low Maintenance Lawns
If you hate mowing, choose microclover. It grows slowly and stays short. It also needs less fertilizer because it makes its own nitrogen.
Pet Areas and High Traffic
Clover handles foot traffic better than some grass types. It recovers quickly. If dogs frequently use an area, clover holds up well against wear and tear.
Attracting Pollinators
If you want to help bees, choose white clover. Its small flowers provide food for pollinators. Be aware that flowering clover might require more frequent mowing if you want to avoid bees landing on it.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying Clover Seed
Q: How much clover seed do I need for my yard?
A: Most bags give coverage rates based on square footage. Generally, you need about 1 to 2 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet for a pure clover stand. Always check the specific product instructions.
Q: Can I mix clover with my existing grass?
A: Yes! Clover blends well with many common turf grasses. It fills in bare spots and stays green when grass goes dormant in the heat.
Q: When is the best time to plant clover seed?
A: Early spring or early fall offers the best results. The soil is moist, and temperatures are mild. This gives the young seeds time to establish roots before summer heat or winter cold arrives.
Q: Does clover require a lot of water?
A: Once established, clover is very drought-tolerant. It needs less water than traditional lawn grasses. This is a major benefit for saving water.
Q: Will clover choke out my existing grass?
A: Clover spreads, but it usually mixes in rather than taking over completely, especially if you plant it as a blend. If you plant too much, it will become dominant.
Q: Is inoculated seed more expensive?
A: Yes, inoculated seed usually costs a little more. However, the inoculation is crucial for the clover’s long-term health, so it is a worthwhile investment.
Q: How tall does white clover grow?
A: Standard white clover grows about 6 to 8 inches tall. Microclover stays much shorter, usually under 4 inches.
Q: Do I need to use fertilizer if I plant clover?
A: Clover naturally produces its own nitrogen fertilizer. You usually do not need nitrogen fertilizer. In fact, too much nitrogen fertilizer can actually encourage grass to outgrow the clover.
Q: Can I mow the clover right after planting?
A: Wait until the clover is about 3 to 4 inches tall before the first mow. Set your mower blade high, usually 3 inches or more, to protect the new plants.
Q: What should I do if the bag says “coated” but not “inoculated”?
A: If it is coated but not specifically inoculated, you should add a commercial clover inoculant when you plant. The coating protects the seed, but the bacteria must be present for nitrogen fixing to occur.