Clover lawns: The low-maintenance, eco-friendly alternative

A green lawn is a staple in many households, but it takes a lot of effort to keep it healthy. Traditional grass lawns require watering, frequent mowing and chemicals to stay tidy. Lawn care consumes almost 9 billion gallons of water every day in the United States, and homeowners spend more than $10 billion each year on fertilizers and pesticides. But many of these chemicals can be harmful to the environment.

With a growing awareness of practices like water conservation, soil health and sustainable landscaping, people want simpler solutions that are also better for the planet. One alternative that fits this bill is the clover lawn, a low-maintenance and environmentally-friendly option that provides a fresh perspective on traditional lawns. They require less mowing, thrive in dry conditions and enhance soil health by naturally fixing nitrogen, which reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers.

Growcycle offers premium clover seeds that can be used for lawn applications. For example, it stocks Barenbrug WonderLawn® White Clover Seed, a perennial legume that spreads naturally through branching stolons and saves nitrogen by enriching the soil for other plants. 

The Evolution of Lawn Care

Lawns have been a component of residential and public landscapes for hundreds of years. In Europe, especially in England and France, large, well-maintained plots of grass emerged as status symbols in the 17th and 18th centuries. These types of lawns were maintained by hand with scythes, and seen mainly on the estates of the wealthy.

The mechanical lawn mower became available in the 19th century, making lawns affordable for the middle class. In the mid-20th century, the growth of suburban neighborhoods in the United States helped popularize the concept of a well-kept, green lawn as a feature among homeowners.

Environmental Impact

Traditional grass lawns are aesthetically pleasing, but are high maintenance and pose environmental issues, including:

• Many homeowners rely on synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides to maintain green lawns. Such chemicals can wash into rivers and lakes where they can cause additional water pollution and harm fish and other living creatures in the water.
• Gas-powered lawn mowers dump carbon in the air, polluting the atmosphere. Frequent mowing also disrupts beneficial insects and natural biodiverse communities.
• Over time, prolonged chemical use and overwatering deplete the soil nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus; therefore plants will not grow without fertilizers.

What Is a Clover Lawn?

A clover lawn is a lawn consist mostly or entirely of clover instead of grass. Unlike grass lawns, which must be mowed, watered and fertilized but still wilt and die in dry weather, clover lawns require little care, are able to withstand drought and help enrich the soil by fixing nitrogen.

Clover lawns have a dense, soft, lush green covering and holds its color even during dry seasons. They do not need as many chemical treatments, so they are a greener and less expensive alternative to traditional grass lawns. It also attracts beneficial pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, supporting local biodiversity.

Types of Clover

Several species of clovers are used for lawns and the most common are:

1. White Clover

• The clover type that is most common for lawns.
• It can reach a height of 8 inches and spreads rapidly via stolons (creeping stems).
• Evergreen in mild climates.
• Generally grows small white flowers to attract pollinators.

2. Micro Clover

• A low-growing, lower-leafed relative of white clover for lawns.
• Tends to stay short (4–6 inches) and mixes well with grass.
• It grows fewer flowers, and is therefore a good option for someone looking for a tidier lawn.
• It is more durable and can handle areas with foot traffic (play areas and backyards).

3. Red Clover

• Taller than white and micro clover (12–18 inches).
• Features dark pink flowers, highly nitrogen-fixing.
• More commonly applied to meadows and pastures than to lawns.

Benefits of Clover Lawns

While many people do have a lawn, maintaining that grass lawn involves a lot of upkeep like mowing, watering, chemical treatments to keep the grass green. Clover lawns are a low-maintenance, eco-friendly option that minimizes mowing, conserves water and naturally enhances soil health.

1. Reduced Mowing Needs

Clover grows slower than regular grass and remains shorter, which means less upkeep. Grass lawns, of course, need to be mowed once a week, at least, in order to look neat, but with clover, mow once every couple of weeks. Some homeowners even allow their clover to grow wild, its delicate flowers blooming and attracting pollinators.

2. Time and Cost Savings

Since clover lawns need less mowing, watering and fertilizing, they can also save homeowners time and money on lawn care. Lower fuel and maintenance costs for lawn mowers, as well as reduced water bills and reduced purchases of chemical fertilizers, make clover an economical and practical long-term lawn solution.

3. Drought Resistance

Clover has far deeper roots than grass, which allows it to draw moisture from lower levels of soil, making it much more drought resistant than a traditional grass lawn. Very little to no irrigation is used to keep dandelions green and clover healthy even in the dry season. By contrast, grass lawns quickly turn brown without regular watering, needing supplemental irrigation to stay green.

4. Natural Nitrogen Fixation

The most important benefit of clover is its ability to naturally fix nitrogen. Clover enters into a symbiotic relationship with good bacteria that live in the soil, allowing it to rise nitrogen from the air and store it in its roots. The in-ground nitrogen-fixing process improves the soil and reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers while producing healthier plants.

5. Pesticide Reduction

Clover is naturally resistant to common lawn pests, which allows homeowners to cut back or eliminate pesticide use. In contrast to grass, which often has issues with weed and insect infestations, clover competes well with weeds and doesn’t attract as many pests. It makes it a safer option for families, pets, and the planet.

6. Benefits for Pollinators

Clover lawns are a food source for bees, butterflies and other beneficial insects. The tiny white or pink clover flowers are abundant with nectar and pollen and support local pollinator populations. This process means strengthening ecosystems, and ultimately more thriving gardens and natural habitats.

7. Soil Health Improvement

Clover improves soil in a few ways:

• Helps to break up tightly packed dirt and improve drainage.
• Increases soil fertility over time by adding organic matter.
• It slows erosion with its dense rooting system, retaining topsoil.

How to Establish and Maintain a Clover Lawn

Clover lawns are simple to grow, but a little planning and care assure things turn out well. By properly preparing the soil like seeding, watering, and maintaining the clover lawn, can help to have a clover which is healthy, vibrant, and fairly carefree for years to come.

1. Planning and Preparation

Even before planting clover, choosing the proper place, and prepping the soil are essential for good growth.

• Clover grows best in full sun and part shade but cannot grow in deep shade. It does best in moderately well-drained soil but will thrive in other soil conditions.
• Before planting the soil pH should be checked. Clover likes a pH of about 6.0 to 7.0. To balance excessively acidic soil you can add lime.
• Clear out existing grass, weeds, and debris prior to planting. Just mixing up the top layer of soil with a rake or light tilling will enhance seed contact and germination rates.

2. Seeding Techniques

Plant clover either in early spring or early fall when temperatures are moderate, and enough moisture is available for germination. When clover is sown on its own, seed at around 2 to 8 ounces of clover per 1,000 square feet, depending on the variety of clover, whether it’s mixed with grass or not.

• Broadcasting: The most straightforward method is to seed by broadcasting the seeds evenly by hand or using a seed spreader. Raking lightly after spreading encourages soil contact.
• Drilling: A seed drill makes more accurate placement and better germination but needs special equipment.

Run a roller over the area or lightly walk over it to achieve good seed-to-soil contact after seeding.

3. Watering and Irrigation

For the first 2–3 weeks after planting, keep the soil moist, but not soggy. Germination can be encouraged by watering lightly once or twice each day. Clover is quite drought tolerant; once established, it needs little to no water and relies on rain. This grass keeps its deep green color, even during drought.

4. Managing Growth

Clover grows low and does not need to be mowed often. But regular upkeep keeps it looking neat.

• If desired, mow the clover to 2–3 inches to remove any flowers and control its height. Similarly, mowing after flower production mitigates unwanted seed dispersion.
• To keep clover from invading flower beds or pathway areas, regularly put in garden edging or trim along borders.

5. Integration with Existing Landscaping

One way to use clover to beautify landscaping is:

• Clover is a nitrogen-rich lawn alternative that can be combined with grass for a nitrogen-rich, drought-resistant lawn.
• In between flower beds and shrubs, it may also be used as an attractive ground cover.
• Clover is a great walkway between garden beds or stepping stones, creating a soft, green, contrasting surface to the hard stuff.

Overcoming Common Myths and Misconceptions

Some homeowners are still reluctant to make the switch to a clover lawn due to some myths. Disputing these myths to emphasize that why clover is a practical, attractive and environmentally sound substitute for conventional grass lawns.

Myth: Clover Is Weedy or Unkempt

It may look messy or act as an invasive weed, but this couldn’t be far from the truth.

Reality: Clover grows low and spreads evenly, resulting in an even, soft lawn that stays green in dry conditions. It creates a thick mat on the ground that suppresses invader weeds from establishing.

Micro clover, specifically, has smaller leaves and remains shorter than classic white clover, making it a tidy, manicured option for contemporary lawns.

Myth: Clover Attracts Pests

One fear that home growers have is that clover attracts pests and is not lawn-worthy.

Reality: Clover repels bad bugs and self attracts good ones.

• It deters grubs and beetles, which commonly damage grass lawns.
• It is beneficial to pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, which are necessary for a flourishing garden.
• Clover is immune to many common turf diseases, so it need fewer chemicals.

Mowing before flowering minimizes pollinating activity and still allows to enjoy clover benefits for those who are bee stressed.

Myth: Clover Won’t Thrive in Certain Climates

It is commonly thought that clover can only grow in more mild climates, which reduces its application.

Reality: Clover is very versatile and grows well in all types of climates from the cool northern areas to the warm southern region.

• It endures hot, dry summers with little watering.
• Its needle leaves stay greener later in cooler seasons than grass does, which browns.
• Clover thrives in poor or compacted soils, so it's a good option for areas where grass doesn't do well.

Challenges and Considerations

While there are plenty of great reasons to consider a clover lawn, it might not be the ideal option for every homeowner. Knowing about the pros and cons leads to more conscious choice.

Potential Drawbacks

Clover is low-maintenance and environmentally friendly, but it is not always the right choice.

• Clover is softer and more delicate than grassy lawns, making it less practical for high-traffic areas, such as sports fields or playgrounds. The mix with grass can increase resilience.
• Some homeowners just like the uniformity of a traditional grass lawn. Clover lawns have a more natural, meadowlike appearance, which might not be complementary with all landscaping designs.
• Clover flowers draw bees and pollinators, which are good for biodiversity, but may be a concern to those with bee allergies. If flowering is required regular mowing will reduce flowering.

Seasonal Variations

Depending on the season, clover lawns have different habits, responding to different climates.

• Spring and Summer: Clover continues to grow vigorously, remaining lush and green, and develops tiny white or pink flowers (unless cut frequently).
• Fall: Clover grows more slowly than grass, but stays green longer in cooler weather.
• Winter: In cooler regions, clover will die or go dormant, but it will return in spring. In more temperate areas, it frequently retains its greenery throughout the winter months.

Integration with Local Regulations

When planting a clover lawn, be sure to verify local regulations and policies:

• Some HOAs forbid alternative lawns and mandate turfgrass. So it’s wise to read through the landscaping rules for the community beforehand.
• Guidelines: Specific cities or areas may impose restrictions on the height of grass, or lawn care guidelines that could affect clover lawn approval.
• Some neighbors may perceive clover lawns as “weedy” or unkempt, so educating the community about their ecological benefits can help.

Allergies and Human Considerations

Clover is typically less allergenic than traditional grass lawns, but a few considerations:

• The pollen generated by clover flowers is less than that produced by many species of grass, and therefore it is preferred by allergy sufferers.
• Clover has soft, smooth leaves versus coarse grass blades, which makes clover a great option for barefoot paths and pet play zones.
• Because clover doesn’t require frequent mowing, it means less dust and less grass clippings, which can aggravate allergies.

FAQs

Can clover be mixed with grass?

Yes. Many homeowners choose a clover grass mix to have both. Clover helps add fertility to the soil and to help reduce amounts of fertilizer needed, while grass adds some durability for high-traffic areas.

Does clover attract pests?

No. Clover is naturally pest-resistant and repels common lawn pests, such as grubs and beetles. It also attracts helpful insects like bees and butterflies.

Does clover require frequent mowing?

No. Clover grows slowly and remains shorter than most grasses. Mowing every few weeks is generally sufficient. If someone wants a no-flower lawn, mow before it blooms.

The Bottom Line

A clover lawn is a simple and sustainable replacement for a traditional grass lawn. It requires less water, fewer chemicals, and no maintenance, and it remains green and healthy. Clover enriches soil, reduces fertilizer costs, attracts beneficial insects, including bees and butterflies. It also grows well in dry conditions and requires little mowing.

Mixing clover with grass produces stronger, healthier lawns, though it may not work in every yard. Check Growcycle to find these premium clover seeds for soil improvement and no-maintenance lawn. 

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or any other form of professional advice.

About the Author

Victor Miller

Environmental Journalist Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

Victor Miller is an environmental journalist at Growcycle, specializing in sustainable agriculture. With a passion for storytelling, he highlights the latest trends, innovations, and practices that promote ecological balance and responsible farming.