The Complete Guide to Micro Clover for Your Lawn

Have you ever heard of micro clover? If not, it’s time to learn about this tiny but mighty groundcover that can transform your lawn. Micro clover, sometimes spelled as microclover, is a miniature version of white clover that is perfect for spring lawn renovation. This variety of clover is bred to be low in height with small leaves, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance the look and health of their grass.

What Is Micro Clover?

Micro clover is a dwarf variety of Dutch white clover (Trifolium repens) that typically grows 4 to 6 inches tall. It is characterized by its trifoliate leaves, which resemble shamrocks and give it a unique appearance. Unlike standard white clover, micro clover is designed to grow shorter, less patchy, and with fewer flowers. This makes it an ideal addition to any lawn mix as it provides continuous nitrogen and helps suppress weeds without crowding out grass.

Some popular varieties of micro clover include ‘Pirouette’ and ‘Pipolina’. These varieties have smaller leaves compared to regular clover and can grow more densely. Additionally, micro clover flowers for about a month during the summer with white flowers, but you can easily trim them to keep your lawn looking green and lush.

Why Should You Consider Micro Clover for Your Lawn?

Micro clover offers a multitude of benefits that can help improve the health and appearance of your lawn. Here are some reasons why you should consider growing micro clover in your yard:

• Grows well with grass: Micro clover is an excellent companion to grass, as it does not crowd out grass species and can be mowed down to 3 inches.
• Supplies nitrogen: Micro clover fixes nitrogen in the soil, providing a natural source of this essential nutrient for your lawn.
• Attracts beneficial insects: The flowers of micro clover attract bees and other beneficial insects that prey on pests, helping to maintain a healthy ecosystem in your yard.
• Resistant to disease and pests: Micro clover is known for its ability to resist common lawn diseases and pests, reducing the need for chemical treatments.
• Reduces the need for fertilization: By fixing nitrogen in the soil, micro clover can reduce the need for additional fertilizers, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly option for lawn care.

How to Establish Micro Clover in Your Lawn

If you’re interested in planting micro clover in your lawn, follow these steps to ensure successful establishment:

1. Timing: Plant micro clover in the spring around your last frost date for optimal growth. In the fall, plant seeds about eight weeks before your first frost date to allow the plants to establish roots before winter.
2. Mixing with existing lawn: If you plan to mix micro clover seeds with your existing lawn, ensure that you mow the lawn close to the ground and aerate the soil before planting to promote seed germination.
3. Regular mowing: Micro clover tolerates regular mowing and will produce fewer flowers when consistently mowed to 3 inches, keeping your lawn looking neat and tidy.

Where to Buy Micro Clover Seeds

Micro clover seeds can be purchased from various sources, but it is essential to look for reputable suppliers to ensure the quality of the seeds. Some common names for micro clover include Microclover, Miniclover, and Microgreen Microclover. While micro clover seeds are more expensive than regular white clover seeds, they are well worth the investment for the benefits they provide to your lawn.

Cost of Micro Clover Seeds

The cost of micro clover seeds can vary depending on the supplier and the quantity needed. On average, micro clover seeds can range from $30 to $65 per pound, with about 1 to 2 pounds needed for every 1,000 square feet of lawn. While this may seem pricey, the long-term benefits of micro clover in your lawn make it a valuable investment for a healthy and vibrant yard.

In conclusion, micro clover is a fantastic addition to any lawn, offering numerous benefits for both the environment and your wallet. By incorporating micro clover into your lawn care routine, you can enjoy a greener, healthier, and more sustainable yard that will be the envy of your neighbors. So why wait? Give micro clover a try and watch your lawn transform into a lush, vibrant oasis of greenery.

Remember, a healthy, beautiful lawn starts from the ground up, so why not give micro clover a chance to show you what it can do for your yard? With its many benefits and easy maintenance, micro clover is sure to become your new favorite addition to your lawn care routine.

Sources: “Illinois University State Extension”, “Lawns and microclover”, “University of Maryland Extension”, “The Value of Coated Seed”, “University of Kentucky Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food, and Environment”.