Ashleigh Smith
Are you tired of keeping up with the ever-looming threat of drought and high heat each summer? Consider using miniature clover as your solution. Clover is already a great solution to the thirsty traditional lawn, but the mini variety continues to prove itself in the world of traditional lawns. Why do we love it so much? Check out the incredible benefits of miniature clover lawns below and how they can help you save on water!
Benefits of Growing Miniature Clover Lawns
Size - The greatest benefit to growing miniature clover over other perennial varieties is its size. This variety matures to 4-6 inches tall, approximately the height of most American lawns. This makes it ideal for filling dead spots, planting in a clover-grass blend, or growing as a ground cover. Plus, it is pet-friendly. Other clovers average twice the height of mini clover, which can create a camouflage problem when retrieving pet waste.
Feed The Soil - As a nitrogen-fixing crop, fertilizer isn’t needed. Clover is able to process nitrogen found in the air and transfer it into a form usable throughout the soil. This is especially beneficial when growing a mix of clover and grass seeds. Grass is known for its high nitrogen requirements that keep homeowners applying several pounds of fertilizer each year. With clover picking up the slack, additional nitrogen fertilizer becomes unnecessary while keeping your grass greener.
Drought Tolerance - For those who live in regions prone to drought, consider switching to clover for its ability to withstand conditions of high heat and little water. While miniature clover needs regular water to become established, it proves to be a viable solution to drought conditions int he long run. Compared to traditional grass lawns, miniature clover can thrive on half the water. That’s something to celebrate.
Supports Pollinator ActivityBesides wildflowers, clover is a popular source of nectar for bees and other native pollinators because of its long bloom time and sugar content. In addition to saving water resources, growing miniature clover can bridge habitat and food scarcity facing vital pollinators.
Low-Maintenance Care - On top of the low water requirements, lack of fertilizer needs, and convenient size, clover doesn’t need regular mowing. This can be a game changer for those maintaining large spaces!
About the Author
I'm Ashleigh Smith, a native to Northern Utah. I first gained a love of gardening with my grandmother as I helped her each summer. I decided to make a career of it and have recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Horticulture from Brigham Young University - Idaho. My studies have focused on plant production while I also have experience in Nursery & Garden Center Operations.
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2 comments
Shawn Conner
Can you eat this miniature clover?
LAUREL
I am a huge fan of having a balanced yard with a lawn, gardens and flowers. I cannot live without grass/lawn to walk, play in and enjoy. I have been looking into clover for drought tolerance and water saving as I’m not a huge fan of zero scaping with a lot of rocks and such. I love the lush and green and drought tolerance of clover and after reading this article and other research, I am sold on clover instead of a traditional grass lawn for my next front yard. Thank you for this clear and informative article!
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