Is your lawn looking a little…tired? Are you dreaming of a greener, healthier carpet of grass without the constant fight against weeds and the never-ending need for fertilizer? Many homeowners face this exact challenge. We all want that perfect yard, but finding the right ingredients to make it happen can feel like a guessing game. Choosing the best clover seeds for your lawn adds another layer of confusion. Which type is best? How much do you need? Will it even grow?
Don’t worry, you are not alone in this struggle! Selecting the right clover can transform your lawn, adding natural beauty and reducing your workload. This post cuts through the noise. We will explore exactly what makes clover a lawn superstar and guide you through picking the perfect seeds for your space. By the end of this article, you will know how to choose clover seeds with confidence. Get ready to learn the secrets to a vibrant, low-maintenance lawn!
Top Clover Seeds For Lawn Recommendations
- 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
- 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!
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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)!
- 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
- 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Clover Seeds for Your Lawn
Adding clover to your lawn is a smart move. Clover stays green even when grass struggles. It also brings helpful nitrogen to the soil, which feeds your grass naturally. This guide helps you pick the best clover seeds for a healthier, greener yard.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for clover seeds, look for these important features:
- Seed Type: Different clovers work better in different places. White clover is low-growing and great for general lawns. Crimson clover grows tall and is often used as a cover crop or in pastures. Red clover is also taller and good for soil improvement.
- Inoculation: Good clover seeds come “inoculated.” This means they have a special coating of bacteria. This bacteria helps the clover pull nitrogen from the air and put it into the soil. Uninoculated seeds may not grow well or provide the soil benefits you want.
- Seed Purity: Check the bag for the purity percentage. Higher percentages mean fewer weed seeds or filler materials are mixed in. Aim for 98% purity or higher.
- Germination Rate: This tells you how many seeds are likely to sprout. A high germination rate (like 85% or more) means you won’t waste money on seeds that never grow.
Important Materials in Clover Seed Mixes
While you mostly buy clover seeds, sometimes they come mixed with other things. Know what you are buying:
- Pure Clover Seed: This is just the type of clover you selected (e.g., ‘Microclover’ or ‘Dutch White Clover’). This is best if you want pure clover coverage.
- Clover/Grass Mixes: Some bags combine clover with fine fescue or perennial ryegrass. These mixes help establish a lawn quickly while the slow-growing clover catches up.
- Starter Fertilizer: Some premium mixes include a small amount of starter fertilizer to give the tiny seedlings a quick boost when they first sprout.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Seed Quality
Seed quality is not just about the label; how the seeds are handled matters too.
What Improves Quality?
- Freshness: Always check the packaging date. Seeds lose viability (ability to sprout) over time. Buy seeds packaged in the last year.
- Proper Storage: High-quality seeds are stored in cool, dry places. Heat and moisture destroy the seed’s ability to sprout.
- Certified Seeds: Seeds that have been officially tested and certified usually offer the best quality assurance.
What Reduces Quality?
- Weed Seeds: Low-quality bags sometimes sneak in seeds from common weeds. These will compete with your new clover.
- Damaged Coating: If the inoculated coating (the good bacteria layer) looks cracked or dusty, the seeds might not perform as expected.
- Old Inventory: Buying seeds left over from two or three seasons ago significantly reduces your chance of a good stand.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the clover affects which type you should buy. Consider your goals:
For a Low-Maintenance Lawn: Many homeowners add clover to existing grass to reduce mowing. For this, choose ‘Microclover’ or ‘Dutch White Clover.’ These varieties stay short, meaning you mow less often. They blend well with standard turfgrass.
For Soil Building/Gardens: If you need the clover to improve poor soil or fix nitrogen levels before planting vegetables, choose taller varieties like Red Clover. These clovers have deeper roots that break up hard soil.
For High Traffic Areas: Clover handles foot traffic better than many grasses. If you have kids or pets, look for durable white clover varieties. They recover quickly after being stepped on.
Clover Seeds for Lawn: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Why should I add clover instead of just grass seed?
A: Clover stays green when grass turns brown in dry or hot weather. It also pulls nitrogen from the air, which naturally fertilizes your grass, meaning you use less chemical fertilizer.
Q: Does clover require a lot of water once it grows?
A: No. Clover has deep roots, making it very drought-tolerant once it is established. It needs less water than traditional lawn grasses.
Q: When is the best time to plant clover seeds?
A: The best time is early spring or early fall. The soil needs to be warm enough for sprouting, but the air shouldn’t be too hot yet. Aim for temperatures around 60-70°F.
Q: Do I need to till my existing lawn before seeding clover?
A: If you are mixing clover into an existing lawn, you only need to lightly rake the area or use a dethatcher. This exposes some soil so the seeds can touch the dirt.
Q: How long does it take for clover seeds to sprout?
A: With good moisture and the right temperature, most clover varieties sprout within 7 to 14 days. Inoculated seeds sometimes sprout faster.
Q: Will clover choke out my existing grass?
A: Clover spreads slowly. If you only use a small amount in your seed mix, it will blend in nicely. Too much clover can take over, so follow the seeding rates on the bag.
Q: What is ‘inoculation’ on clover seeds?
A: Inoculation is a special coating containing beneficial bacteria. This bacteria is essential because it lets the clover capture nitrogen from the air and share it with your grass roots.
Q: Can I mow my lawn right after planting clover seeds?
A: Wait until the seedlings are about 3 to 4 inches tall before the first mow. Set your mower blade high for that first cut to avoid pulling out the young roots.
Q: Does clover attract bees?
A: Yes, all flowering clovers attract bees. If you do not want many bees, choose ‘Microclover’ varieties, as they flower much less frequently than standard white or red clover.
Q: What is the difference between Red Clover and White Clover for lawns?
A: White clover stays low to the ground and spreads well in existing turf. Red clover grows much taller, often over a foot high, and is better suited for fields or soil improvement rather than a typical short lawn.