Essential Information

Planting trefoil inclay soilcan be a challenge , but it ’s not impossible . With the right preparation and care , you could enjoy a lush , atomic number 7 - fixing clover lawn or garden in even the heaviest of soils . Here ’s a step - by - step guideto help you get started :

1. Soil Preparation

Clay territory is be intimate for its compaction andpoor drain , gain it difficult for tooth root to dawn and water to penetrate . To ameliorate these conditions , start by amending the stain with constituent matter such as compost , manure , or peat moss . This will help to loosen the soil , meliorate drain , and provide food for the trefoil .

2. Choose the Right Clover Variety

Not all clover varieties arecreated adequate . Some are better suited to Lucius Clay soils than others . White trefoil ( genus Trifolium repens ) is agood choice , as it is tolerant ofcompacted soilsand can deal some drought . Red clover ( Trifolium pratense ) is another choice , but it prefers slightly lighter soils .

3. Time Your Planting

Fall is the ideal time toplant cloverinclay grunge . The soil is still tender enough for germination , but the tank temperatures will help oneself to reduce weed growing . you may also plant in spring , but be certain to water theclover regularlyduring hot , dry weather condition .

4. Prepare the Seed Bed

Before planting the clover , train the seedbed by scan the soil to remove any debris or clumps . Then , utilize a tumbler or fiddle to firm thesoil more or less . This will aid tocreate respectable seed - to - stain contactand improve germination .

5. Sow the Clover Seed

Clover germ are very minor , so it ’s important to sow them evenly . you may do this by script or with aseed spreader . Be sure to succeed the direction on the come mailboat for the recommended seeding rate .

6. Cover the Seeds

Once the seeded player are sown , cover them with athin layerof soil or compost . This will aid to protect them from drying out and being eat by birds .

7. Water the Clover

piss theclover regularly , peculiarly during the first few weeks after planting . The territory should be kept moist but not soggy . Once the clover is established , it will be more drouth - large-minded .

8. Fertilize the Clover

trefoil is a nitrogen - bushel plant , meaning that it canconvert atmospherical nitrogeninto a form that can be used by plants . However , it may still do good fromoccasional fertilization . Use a fertilizer that is crushed in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium .

9. Control Weeds

Weeds can be a problem in clover lawn and gardens , especially in clay soil . Tocontrol dope , mow the clover regularly and hand - take out any weeds that do appear . you’re able to also use a pre - emergent herbicide toprevent weedsfrom germinating .

10. Aerate the Soil

Clay grease can become pack over time , which can make it unmanageable for H2O and air to penetrate . To prevent this , aerate the grease every few years . you may do this by using acore aeratoror only bypoking holesin the territory with a pitchfork .

Wrap-Up: Enjoying Your Clover Lawn or Garden

Withproper careand maintenance , your clover lawn or garden will thrive in even the heaviest ofclay soils . Clover is a beautiful , low - maintenance plant that can provide a number of welfare to your landscape .

Frequently Asked Questions

Q : How often should I irrigate clover?A : Water trefoil regularly , specially during the first few weeks after planting . Once prove , clover is drought - tolerant and will only need to be water during hot , dry weather . Q : How do Icontrol weedsin clover?A : Control weedsin clover bymowing regularlyand hand - pulling any weeds that do appear . you may also use a pre - emergent weedkiller to preclude weeds from germinating . Q : How do I aerate Henry Clay soil?A : Aerate clay soilby using acore aeratoror just bypoking holesin the grime with a pitchfork . Aeration should be done every few years to forestall the soil from becoming constrict .