White clover
Trifolium repens · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant white clover: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Fabaceae (legumes)
- Foliage
- Evergreen to semi-evergreen
- Flowering
- April to September, white or pink flowers
- Adult size
- 10-20 cm tall, creeping habit
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -20°C)
- Origin
- Europe, temperate Asia, North Africa
- Soil type
- All types, undemanding
Care
Watering
Creeping clover prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly for the first few weeks after planting, then gradually reduce: the plant adapts well to drought once established. During normal rainfall periods, no additional watering is necessary.
Light Exposure
Plant creeping clover in full sun or partial shade. It tolerates shaded areas well but germinates and grows more vigorously in direct light. Choose a sunny location for dense coverage and abundant flowering.
Soil and Preparation
Creeping clover is undemanding and grows in all soil types. However, it prefers slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soils. Enrich the soil with compost before planting in compacted or poor areas.
Fertilization
Like all legumes, creeping clover fixes atmospheric nitrogen and needs no nitrogen fertilizer. A compost application in spring is more than sufficient for its wellbeing and longevity.
Maintenance and Pruning
Little pruning is necessary. You can mow or cut back to 5-10 cm in late summer to rejuvenate the plant and control its growth. Regularly remove dead or overgrown areas to maintain even coverage.
Diseases and Pests
Creeping clover is very disease-hardy. Few pests bother it. In case of chronic excess moisture, watch for rust or root rot, in which case improve drainage.
Did you know?
Creeping clover is a quiet hero of ecosystems: its roots harbor symbiotic bacteria capable of converting atmospheric nitrogen into assimilable nutrients, enriching the soil for neighboring plants. This is why farmers have incorporated it into meadows and crop rotations for centuries. In Ireland, the three-leafed clover (of which creeping clover is a variety) has become a national and spiritual symbol, though Saint Patrick himself actually used white clover to explain the Trinity.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.