Hop trefoil
Trifolium campestre · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant hop trefoil: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult size
- 15 to 30 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -15°C
- Origin
- Europe, Western Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, undemanding
Care
Exposure
Field clover appreciates full sun for optimal growth and generous flowering. It tolerates light shade, though it's less vigorous in these conditions. Place it in a bright, airy location for best results.
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season to keep the soil slightly moist, without waterlogging. Once established, it tolerates dry periods well thanks to its deep root system. Reduce watering in autumn and winter.
Soil and Planting
Field clover adapts to most well-drained soils, even poor or chalky ones. It prefers light and aerated soils. Avoid compacted and permanently wet soils that would encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Undemanding, clover benefits from a balanced fertilizer application in spring. As a legume, it naturally fixes nitrogen from the soil and needs only moderate amounts. Annual feeding is usually sufficient.
Pruning and Maintenance
Cut back after flowering to encourage branching and a second bloom. This annual or biennial plant is naturally bushy and requires little intervention. Remove dead stems at the end of winter.
Diseases and Pests
Field clover is generally very robust and rarely affected by diseases. In case of excessive moisture, watch for powdery mildew or root rot. Good drainage and aeration are usually enough to prevent most problems.
Did you know?
Field clover has long been used as a forage plant and for soil improvement thanks to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. Its small yellow-orange flowers in spikes are highly appreciated by bees and pollinators, making it an excellent ally for ecological gardens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese wisteriaWisteria sinensis
- Common broomCytisus scoparius
- Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia
- Common PeaLathyrus oleraceus
- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.