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Inquiry Regarding Converting Backyard to Clover Cover #868297

Asked May 13, 2024, 8:27 PM EDT

Dear Gardening Expert, I am reaching out to seek your expertise on converting my backyard into a clover cover. Living in Columbus, Ohio, I am looking for the best clover variety that is both hardy and low maintenance. Could you please provide guidance on the following: 1. The best type of clover to use in Columbus, Ohio, considering its climate and soil conditions. 2. Tips and best practices for converting my backyard into a clover cover, including soil preparation, seeding methods, and maintenance requirements. 3. Any specific considerations or challenges I should be aware of when transitioning to a clover cover in Columbus, Ohio. I appreciate any insights or recommendations you can provide to help me achieve a successful conversion to clover cover in my backyard. Your expertise is invaluable, and I look forward to your guidance on this matter. Thank you for your time and assistance.

Franklin County Ohio

Expert Response

Jaynee: Clover grows best in slightly acidic soils (pH level between 6.0 and 7.0; avoid highly acidic soil), well-drained soil with high organic matter content, and sandy, loamy soils are recommended clover will tolerate clay soils. Additionally, clover wants nutrient-rich soils with phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. It's recommended that you test your soil before planting your clover. You may need to ameliorate the soil before planting.  Soil Testing for Ohio Lawns, Landscapes, Fruit Crops, and Vegetable Gardens | Ohioline (osu.edu) 

Generally, white clover (Trifolium repens), is the most common species planted for lawns. It is native to Asia and parts of Europe. It is a low-growing plant with creeping stems (stolons) that produce roots and shoots at nodes (joints) along the stem, which helps the plant to spread. There is usually a characteristic white, crescent-shaped band on each leaflet. White flowers (often tinged with pink) appear in early summer.  Trifolium repens (Clover, Dutch Clover, Ladino Clover, Purple Dutch Clover, Shamrock, White Clover) | North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox (ncsu.edu)

Red or crimson clover (Trifolium incarnatum) is also an option. It too is native to Europe and Asia but now widely grown in North America. It is a very short-term perennial and is grown as an annual. pg_trin3.pdf (usda.gov)

Below are a couple of articles about converting a yard to clover. Here are few things to consider in making the switch. Clover is a short-lived perennial that will require re-seeding every year (red clover) or every couple of years (white clover). Consider keeping some grass but increase the amount of clover in the yard. Do you want to top seed over existing lawn or remove the entire lawn before planting clover? Select your seed based on the characteristics of the variety -- much research and breeding has been done to create stronger seed etc.

Clover Lawns: 15 Things to Know Before Growing (thespruce.com)

Grow A White Clover Lawn - Using Clover As A Grass Substitute | Gardening Know How

Crimson Clover Information: Learn How To Grow Crimson Clover In The Garden | Gardening Know How

Regards.

Jane MacKnight Replied May 14, 2024, 3:00 PM EDT

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