White clover (Trifolium repens)
Also known as: Dutch clover, Shamrock
White clover, or Trifolium repens, is a widely grown perennial herb. It thrives in lawns and grasslands globally and is frequently utilized in agriculture for forage and green manure.
In This Article
Attributes of White clover
Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
10 cm to 30 cm
Spread
1 m
Leaf Color
Green White Variegated
Flower Size
7 mm to 1.2 cm
Flower Color
White Pink
Images of White clover
Quickly Identify White clover
1
Tripinnate leaf arrangement with oval leaflets.
2
Rounded white flower heads, fragrant with sweet scent.
3
Globular flowers with 40-100 small, white florets.
4
Ovate fruit pod housing 4-6 small seeds.
5
Square-shaped stem with unique branching pattern.
Scientific Classification of White clover
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Legumes, milkworts and allies
Family
Legume
Genus
Clovers
Species
White clover
Planting and Growing of White clover
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 4 days
Sunlight Requirements
Partial sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
59-77℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water White clover?
When watering Trifolium repens, make sure the soil is moistened thoroughly but not waterlogged. A common guideline is to apply 250 ml of water, allowing it to soak slowly into the soil until it starts to drain from the bottom of the pot. Always ensure proper drainage to avoid root rot.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered White clover?
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What should I do if my White clover is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered White clover?
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How to save an overwatered White clover?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for White clover?
Trifolium repens favors partial to full sun exposure, where 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily ensures optimal growth. This light range helps maintain a vigorous, well-distributed foliage, enhancing its utility as low-maintenance ground cover.
What is the optimal light condition for Trifolium repens?
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How can I provide ideal sunlight exposure?
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What are the benefits of ideal sunlight for Trifolium repens?
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for White clover?
The ideal temperature range for Trifolium repens is between 59°F and 77°F. Within this range, the plant is most likely to thrive, showing optimal growth rates and healthy foliage. These temperatures support not only the vegetative growth but also enhance nutrient uptake, making it crucial for maintaining overall plant vigor.
What Soil is Best for White clover?
Trifolium repens thrives best in well-drained soils to prevent waterlogging, which could lead to root rot. Adequate drainage ensures the roots receive enough oxygen, promoting healthy growth and lush foliage. While good drainage is crucial, the soil should retain enough moisture to keep the plant hydrated. Sufficient moisture retention supports nutrient absorption, leading to vigorous plant development and overall health. This plant benefits greatly from nutrient-rich soil, which supplies essential minerals and elements needed for growth. A fertile soil environment encourages robust clover growth and enhances its nitrogen-fixing abilities.
How to Fertilize White clover?
For Trifolium repens, using a balanced, water-soluble, 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer at one-fourth to one-half strength is ideal. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental, so maintaining light, consistent feedings is key. Make sure to dilute the liquid fertilizer to prevent root burn.
How to Prune White clover?
When pruning Trifolium repens, focus on cutting back any overly long or sprawling stems to promote a bushier form. Use sharp, clean scissors or shears to make precise cuts just above a leaf node. This encourages the plant to produce new shoots, resulting in denser growth. Make sure to remove any dead or damaged stems to enhance the overall health of the plant. To ensure continuous blooming, remove spent flowers regularly. This process, known as deadheading, redirects the plant's energy from seed production back to new growth and more flowers. Pinch or cut off the faded flowers just below the bloom without removing too much foliage, as leaves are vital for the plant’s photosynthesis.
How to Propagate White clover plant?
1
Start by soaking Trifolium repens seeds in water for a few hours to soften the seed coat and enhance germination rates. This step ensures the seeds are primed and ready for planting.
2
Use healthy stems to take cuttings. Cut 3-4 inches long sections, making sure each cutting has multiple leaves. Place the cuttings in a pot filled with moist potting mix. This step is vital for creating new growth points.
3
Divide mature Trifolium repens plants by gently teasing apart the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should contain both roots and shoots to ensure successful re-establishment.
How to Repot White clover plant?
1
Repotting is necessary when the plant’s roots begin to outgrow the pot, often peeping out from the drainage holes. Another indicator could be the plant becoming unusually dry between waterings or experiencing stunted growth, despite optimal care.
2
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, to prevent root rot due to excess moisture. A pot with drainage holes is essential as it helps prevent waterlogging, which Trifolium repens is sensitive to.
3
Opt for a well-draining potting mix to prevent waterlogging. Including perlite or sand can further improve drainage. This promotes healthy root development and prevents root rot by ensuring excess water quickly drains away.
Toxicity of White clover
Is White clover toxic to cat?
White clover presents a minor toxicity risk for cats. Although cats typically show little interest in eating plants, they can still suffer poisoning from white clover if they consume it in significant quantities. Every part of the white clover plant is toxic to cats. If ingested, they may display signs of physical distress, which can vary depending on the quantity of the plant consumed. If white clover poisoning is suspected, it is essential to obtain prompt veterinary assistance to safeguard the health and welfare of the impacted cat.
Is White clover toxic to dog?
White clover presents a minor toxicity threat to dogs. Although rare instances of grazing on this plant are unlikely to result in harm, consuming it in substantial quantities can lead to toxic reactions. Any part of the plant can induce poisoning, as every section is deemed toxic. Symptoms of toxicity may encompass gastrointestinal disturbances, such as vomiting or diarrhea, with the severity of reactions varying based on the amount consumed. If you believe your dog may have ingested white clover and is showing signs of poisoning, it is vital to seek immediate assistance from a veterinary clinic to safeguard their health and wellbeing.
WARNING
The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
