White clover (Trifolium repens) is a low-growing perennial plant known for its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, naturally fertilizing surrounding grass. This legume is experiencing a resurgence in popularity as a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn alternative or as an addition to traditional turf. Successfully incorporating white clover into your landscape begins with identifying the correct seed variety and securing a high-quality product from a reliable source.
Primary Sources for Purchasing White Clover Seed
Online specialty retailers offer the widest selection of white clover cultivars, including hard-to-find varieties like Microclover. These dedicated seed companies provide detailed information regarding seed purity and germination rates, making them the best source for smaller, specific quantities. Although prices per pound may be higher than bulk options, the access to specialized seed types and quality control is valuable for targeted projects.
Local agricultural suppliers, such as feed stores and farm cooperatives, are an excellent resource for purchasing white clover seed in bulk quantities. These vendors typically carry common varieties like Dutch White Clover, which is suitable for larger areas like pastures or expansive lawn projects. Purchasing locally can save money on shipping costs associated with heavy seed bags, and the staff often possesses regional knowledge about the best planting methods for your climate.
Big box home improvement stores provide convenience for quick, small-scale purchases, but their inventory is often limited to generic seed mixes containing low percentages of clover or unintended grass species. Quality control can be inconsistent, as seeds may not be stored under ideal conditions, potentially leading to lower germination rates. Always examine the seed tag to confirm the exact contents and check for the presence of noxious weeds before buying from these sources.
Essential Considerations When Selecting Seed Types
Selecting the correct white clover type depends entirely on your intended use, as different cultivars have been bred for specific growth habits. Dutch White Clover is the most common variety, characterized by a low-growing mat with numerous flowers, making it suitable for general lawn use and attracting pollinators. Ladino Clover is a larger, taller variety that can grow up to 12 inches high, which is better suited for forage or cover cropping where height is not a concern.
Microclover, a dwarf cultivar like ‘Pipolina’ or ‘Pirouette,’ is developed for a manicured lawn aesthetic because it has smaller leaves and produces fewer flowers than traditional Dutch white clover. Although Microclover seed is significantly more expensive, its compact growth habit allows it to blend seamlessly with turfgrass and requires less frequent mowing.
The quality of any seed you purchase can be determined by the seed tag. This tag lists the percentage of seed purity and the minimum germination rate, which should ideally be above 85% for reliable establishment.
The difference between coated and uncoated seed affects the number of viable seeds per pound. Coated seeds are covered with a protective layer, often a mix of lime and an inoculant containing Rhizobium bacteria necessary for nitrogen fixation. While this coating improves moisture retention, it can constitute 25% to 45% of the total weight, meaning a bag of coated seed contains fewer actual seeds than an equally-weighted bag of uncoated seed.
Calculating Required Seed Quantity and Optimal Timing
Determining the amount of white clover seed required depends on whether you are establishing a new, pure clover lawn or overseeding an existing turf. For establishing a new stand of clover, the recommended seeding rate is typically between 1/4 to 1/2 pound per 1,000 square feet. When overseeding into an existing lawn, a lower rate is used, often around 2 to 4 ounces per 1,000 square feet.
The optimal time for planting white clover seed is generally in early spring or late summer to early fall, allowing seedlings to establish before extreme temperatures arrive. Planting during these times ensures soil temperatures are in the ideal range (50°F to 70°F), which encourages rapid and effective germination. Sufficient soil moisture is also necessary for the small seeds to sprout and take root, which is more reliably available during the cooler seasons.