How to Collect Clover Seed
The clover plant is a member of the Trifolium genus and the pea family (Fabaceae). There are more than 300 different types of clover, ranging from annual varieties to perennial varieties. They are found primarily in temperate and subtropical regions. The plants form flowers as part of their life cycle, and these flowers dry out to form seeds. By following the natural life cycle of the clover plant, it is easy to collect clover seed and start new clover plants in your yard.
Watch the clover life cycle throughout the summer. As flowers develop on the clover, you will need to observe the plants daily to make sure you pick the seeds at the right time.
- The clover plant is a member of the Trifolium genus and the pea family (Fabaceae).
- As flowers develop on the clover, you will need to observe the plants daily to make sure you pick the seeds at the right time.
Watch for the flowers to dry up on the clover plant. When they dry up and turn brown, the seeds will be ready to harvest.
Pinch the stem of the flower with your thumb and index finger. Gently remove the seeds from the clover plant by sliding your thumb and index finger up the stem.
Store the seeds in a dry container until ready to plant them. If exposed to high humidity and water, they could prematurely rot.
Plant Clover Seeds
is an iconic plants often associated with superstition, luck, and for being so adorable. It is sowed depending on It's designated use. The best time to plant clover in the spring is from mid-April to mid-May to coincide with spring rains. Red clover (Trifolium pretense) will grow in USDA plant hardiness zones 3a through 8b. If the clover is already growing, dig rows in it for pole beans or dig holes for broccoli, tomatoes, eggplants or other tall-growing vegetables. Dutch white clover is often mixed with grass seed for lawns in spring planting because it will grow in areas that are too shady or poorly drained for conventional grass species. Clover needs soil with a pH between 6 to 7. If the pH is low, try using lime or limestone to the soil. Mixing the seeds with sand makes them easier to spread. There is no need to fertilize.
- Watch for the flowers to dry up on the clover plant.
- If the clover is already growing, dig rows in it for pole beans or dig holes for broccoli, tomatoes, eggplants or other tall-growing vegetables.
Tip
Don't collect seeds that are still green. These seeds are not viable and will not grow.
If you wait too long to collect the seeds, they will fall off the plant and will be hard to find.
References
- The Jump: Clover Planting 101
- Do It Yourself: Plant a Clover Lawn
- Oregon Clover: Clover Seed Production in Oregon
- Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education: White Clover
- National Gardening Association: Fall Garden Cover Crop
- USDA, National Resources Conservation Service: White Clover, Trifolium Repens
- Organic Gardening: Cover Crop Basics
- Mother Earth News: Grow Cover Crops for Best Garden Soil
- Old Farmer’s Almanac: Clover Comeback
- Outside Pride: Clover Seed Planting Instructions