If you’ve ever wished your lawn could be lush and green without all the fuss, it might be time to ditch traditional grass and welcome the clover into your life. Clover lawns are growing in popularity —they’re practical, beautiful, and packed with environmental benefits that traditional grass lawns can’t match.
Micro clover is incredibly popular thanks to its neat, dense, and tidy appearance. It stays low, grows slowly, and creates an attractive emerald carpet that’s soft underfoot. It’s particularly good if you want something that blends well with grass to reduce overall lawn maintenance.
White clover is similar to micro clover, but with slightly larger leaves and flowers. It’s generally taller, a little more robust and produces more flowers. While it may not look quite a neat as microclover, it blooms cheerfully, spreading little white blossoms that look fantastic and provide a rich source of nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Its deep green color and dense coverage also help suppress weeds.
Crimson clover has gorgeous red flowers. It is often used as a cover crop to enrich poor soils or as a seasonal delight for pollinators. Though it doesn’t form as permanent a lawn as micro or white clover, it’s great for seasonal interest or as part of a diverse lawn mix or seeded in among wild flowers.
Why go clover instead of grass?
First and foremost, clover lawns are incredibly easy-going. They thrive even in poor soils, converting nitrogen from the air into fertilizer through their roots, keeping your garden green and lush without extra chemicals. Clover lawns are also drought-resistant and typically require less water than grass, making them perfect for areas prone to dry spells or watering restrictions (which will likely become more commonplace).
Beyond easy maintenance, clover lawns create important habitats for pollinators. With bee populations under threat globally, turning your lawn into a mini sanctuary can make a real difference. Clover flowers provide essential nectar sources, encouraging pollinators to visit and promoting a thriving local ecosystem right in your backyard.
Moreover, clover’s low-growing habit naturally creates a thick, lush carpet that’s pleasant to walk on and looks fantastic. Clover lawns stay relatively short, rarely needing mowing unless you prefer a manicured look, making them a fantastic low-maintenance alternative to grass.
When should you sow clover?
The ideal time to plant clover is either in the spring or autumn. Soil temperatures should consistently be above 8-10 degrees Celsius (46-50 degrees Fahrenheit) to help your clover seeds germinate effectively. If you’re sowing in spring, choose a time when the threat of frost has passed but before the heat of summer kicks in. In autumn, planting around six weeks before the first expected frost is perfect, giving your clover lawn ample time to establish itself.
Sowing is straightforward. Prepare your soil by lightly raking the surface, scattering your chosen clover seeds evenly over the area, then lightly rake again to cover them. Water gently, and keep the area moist (but not soaked) until seedlings appear, usually in 7-14 days.
Choosing a clover lawn over traditional grass offers an environmentally friendly, visually pleasing, and low-maintenance option. Whether you go for micro clover, white clover, or throw in a splash of crimson clover, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, hassle-free garden that benefits both you and your local pollinators.
