How to Plant Clover
Do you want to replace your mundane looking lawn with something that makes it look more pleasing to the eye? If yes, consider planting clover. Not only does clover act as a cover crop, it also enriches the soil with nitrogen and prevents erosion. The plant's fast growing quality and aesthetic appeal makes it popular among lawn growers. Read on to learn how to plant clover. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Know about the different varieties of clover that you can plant.
-
2
Consider factors such as color, soil type, primary use and time to decide on the type of clover to plant. For instance, opt for Crimson Clover if you live in an area which has extremely cold weather. Plant Dutch White clover if you are looking for a fine-leaved variety with long life to grow in lawns.
-
-
3
Decide on a time to plant the clover. Winter is considered the best time to grow it. Select a time around September to start planting.
-
4
Prepare the seedbed to plant clover. Make sure it is properly harrowed. This is important to ensure uniform planting.
-
5
Cover your seeds with live bacteria using a sticking agent. This is necessary to help clover get nitrogen from the air and thereby ensure proper forage production. This process is called inoculation.
-
6
Moisten the seeds with a sticking agent before inoculating them. This will ensure that the bacteria remains stuck to the seeds.
-
7
Dry the seeds after inoculating. This is necessary to ensure proper scattering of the seeds.
-
8
Scatter the seeds evenly over the plot. Use a shovel. Avoid using hands for this purpose as it may lead to an uneven lawn.
-
9
Ensure that the seeds are not planted too deep. Clover seeds are very small and should not be sowed deeper than half an inch.
-
10
Remember that adequate moisture is critical for clover growth as it keeps the bacteria alive. Water the plot using spray nozzle. Make sure you do not use a strong nozzle for this purpose as it can wash the seeds.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Inoculate the seeds a few hours before sowing. This will ensure proper drying and that the seeds do not fall in clumps.
Store freshly inoculated seeds in a cool place till you plant them. The bacteria can die in a warm place.
Avoid buying pre-inoculated seeds available in the market. Most of them are coated with lime and the bacteria may be long dead.
Avoid walking over the area where you plant clover. The plant cannot resist it and may die.
