Clover

About Clover

Clover is a large family of plants in the pea family. Although clover is often appreciated for its easy growth habit, drought tolerance and ability to attract pollinators, many homeowners aren’t impressed when this rather messy plant takes over a carefully tended lawn.

Native to Europe, clover is found in nearly every climate across North America, with the exception of hot, arid regions. While it may not be possible to gain complete control, you can take steps to keep clover at manageable levels.

Identification and growth habits

Clover is easily recognized for its small clusters of white or pink blooms and distinctive three-petaled leaflets (although you may occasionally discover a lucky, four-leaf clover). Cover is usually darker than typical lawn grass because it pulls nitrogen from the air. This low-growing plant spreads by seeds and stems that creep along the surface of the soil. Although clover is a small plant, the roots may reach a depth of 5 to 8 feet (1.5 to 2 m.).

Habitat

Clover isn’t a serious problem in natural areas because it doesn’t compete well with taller, native plants. However, it is right at home in disturbed areas like fields, grassy meadows, pastures, roadsides – and of course, lawns.