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Clover lawns in Colorado #655467

Asked June 24, 2020, 12:18 PM EDT

Hi there!

I'm considering seeding my ex-lawn with clover. It used to be grass, but I never watered it and now it's mostly sandy dirt. Looking to get that green back in my life without using too much water. Clover lawns sound really nice. Do they do well in Colorado's 5B region? Our lawn has fairly low foot traffic, so should we do 100% clover or a grass mixture? How much should I expect to water a "drought tolerant" clover lawn? Thank you so much for your help!


David Zilis

Denver County Colorado

Expert Response

It is an option for a lawn alternative, however, if your home is in an HOA check with them for guidance or restrictions. Some potential problems with clover lawns:


  • If you are worried about uniformity, clover would also need to be re-seeded every 2-3 years. You can do a grass mixture in with the clover for more coverage. 
  • Clover is not drought tolerant; it may need as much water as bluegrass or fescue
  • Weed control could be challenging. Herbicides that are used in lawns cannot be used in clover.
  • Clover attracts bees so be careful when walking in the lawn.
Clover does need a fair amount of moisture so if you are really after low water, you might try drier loving grasses like blue grama, buffalograss, tall fescue or ground covers, here is a fact sheet: https://planttalk.colostate.edu/topics/water-wise-xeriscape/1912-xeriscape-turf-alternatives/ If you are still set on clover,I am not finding good research based  information from the Universities on clover lawns unfortunately. 
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 24, 2020, 1:44 PM EDT

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