CONVERTING YOUR LAWN TO CLOVER
- Georgia Fields
- Jun 29
- 3 min read
"At its core, clover is a legume and a nitrogen fixer – it partners with beneficial bacteria to transform nitrogen gas that resides in air pockets within the soil into stable organic compounds that nourish surrounding plants. It spreads quickly, grows well under many conditions and feels luxurious under your feet – all reasons why lawn-care professionals say people nationwide are experimenting with this turf substitute.
Cost and the ease of clover lawns has attracted many homeowners to try this trend. Clover seeds are relatively affordable compared with grass seeds, and people may not need to use as many treatments to keep their clover lawn looking good all season, experts say. Clover needs very little, if anything, in the way of fertilizer and can grow in a wide variety of soils. It also needs less mowing and less water to stay green and lush."
Benefits of a Clover Lawn:
Low Maintenance: Clover requires less mowing than grass and doesn't need fertilization.
Drought Tolerant: Once established, clover can handle dry periods better than many grasses.
Nitrogen Fixing: Clover naturally fixes nitrogen in the soil, improving soil health.
Weed Suppressant: A dense clover patch can help prevent other weeds from growing.
Pollinator Friendly: Clover flowers attract bees and other beneficial insects.
Soft Underfoot: Clover is generally soft to walk on.
Steps to Convert Your Lawn:
Stop Using Herbicides and Fertilizers: For at least a few weeks before you start, avoid using any chemicals on your lawn. This will give the clover a better chance to establish. Since you've searched for "organic weed killer," consider using natural methods for any existing weeds you want to remove.
Mow Your Lawn Short: Cut your grass as short as your mower will allow. This helps expose the soil and gives clover seeds better contact.
Consider Aerating Your Lawn: If your soil is compacted, aerating can improve drainage and help clover seeds germinate. You can rent an aerator or use a manual core aerator.
Overseed with Clover:
Choose the Right Clover: White clover (Trifolium repens) is a common and popular choice for lawns because it's low-growing and spreads well. Microclover is another option that is even smaller and blends well with existing grass if you don't want a completely clover lawn.
Spread the Seeds: You can spread clover seeds by hand or using a spreader. Aim for about 1-2 pounds of seed per 1,000 square feet. For better distribution, you can mix the seeds with a bit of sand or fine compost.
Timing: The best time to overseed is in the spring or early fall when the soil is moist.
Water Regularly: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially for the first few weeks after seeding, to encourage germination. Avoid heavy watering that could wash away the seeds.
Be Patient: It can take several weeks or even a couple of months for the clover to germinate and establish. You might see some patchy areas at first, but the clover should eventually spread.
First Mow (Optional): If you decide to mow, wait until the clover is at least 3-4 inches tall. Set your mower blade high. Many people choose not to mow clover lawns frequently, or at all.
Things to Consider:
Existing Weeds: If you have a lot of persistent weeds, you might need to take extra steps to control them before introducing clover.
Sunlight: Clover generally prefers full sun but can tolerate some partial shade. Observe your lawn to ensure it gets enough sunlight for clover to thrive.
Foot Traffic: Clover is relatively durable but heavy foot traffic in concentrated areas might wear it down over time.
Bees: While clover is great for pollinators, be aware that a clover lawn will attract bees. If you have concerns about bee stings, especially if you have young children who play in the yard, this is something to consider.
By following these steps, you can successfully convert your grass lawn into a beautiful and beneficial clover lawn.
Additional resources:
Selecting the right clover: Five Types of Clover - Gardening.org
Contact us for more information on converting your lawn!
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