We love red clover as a cover crop. Its thick, deep roots access nutrients lower in the soil column than many plants can reach and bring them to the surface. It can stand up to foot traffic, and can be mowed two to three times in summer, extending its bloom period. Continue reading below for tips on how to grow Medium Red clover from seed.
Latin
Trifolium pratense
Family: Fabaceae
Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
Timing
Medium Red clover does best from spring or fall sowing. Sow after last frost, or August to early October.
Starting
Sow seeds no deeper than 5mm (¼").
Growing
Each time it is cut, it adds biomass to the soil, but we recommend that it be left in place to degrade back into the soil - or used as the green layer in composting. This clover is a short lived perennial that is hardy to Zone 4.