Everything You Need to Know About Clover Lawns, the Eco-Friendly Landscaping Trend That Calls for Just 4 Mowings Per Year

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"Clover is actually a legume, which means that it draws nitrogen from the air and pulls it to the ground, which is highly beneficial to the soil, grass, and plants nearby"

Pros - This lawn style has plenty of benefits, including the fact that you're likely already growing some clover in your grass. "Rather than fighting it, consider it nature's gift," McDonald says.

Cons - McDonald says that clover doesn't wear evenly when it comes to heavy foot traffic; turf grass handles this better. "One more very important tidbit on clover lawns for families—clover attracts honeybees"

McDonald says clover grows best in the USDA plant hardiness zones 3 through 10. "Clover does particularly well in areas like California and Texas, which have mild winters and dry summers. "It grows and spreads quickly when started in the spring, when temperatures range between 50 to 85 degrees."

How to Plant a Clover Lawn 

While you may already have some clover growing in your grass, the trick to getting a fuller thatch boils down to prep work.

- Check Your Soil

"Most importantly, prepare and check your soil ahead of planting, adding that you'll want to plant your clover seeds and water until they are established.”

- When to Plant

Spring is the best time to get started, according to McDonald. In the early spring, mow your lawn after the first frost has passed. At that time, if your soil's pH isn't up to snuff, you can amend your dirt by adding in some fine sand.

- Planting Tip

"Mix your clover seed with sandy loam soil and cover the area. Lightly rake the area where you've seeded the clover," says McDonald. Water daily for 10 to 14 days until you see germination. Reduce watering once the seedlings grow leaves; at that time, your lawn is considered established.

How to Care for a Clover Lawn

Once your clover is established, you can kick back and enjoy all of your hard work: Clover lawns require far less mowing than traditional ones, and "herbicide is strongly discouraged and unnecessary, as pests are few".

- Sporadic Mowing

"Provided that it receives 4 to 6 hours of sun daily, clover really maintains itself”. "You'll likely mow it three to four times per year, but this can be adjusted based on your preference.

- Letting It Grow

If you're someone who prefers an English garden aesthetic, you can let your clover lawn grow to its maximum height of 8 inches.