Establishing a Clover Lawn: A Low-Maintenance Alternative

Simple Approach

Seed clover heavily (Dutch white clover, 1–2 lbs/1,000 sq ft) into prepared soil. It will outcompete grass if seeded thickly. Clover fixes nitrogen, stays green in drought, needs no fertilizer, and supports pollinators.

Resource

Detailed guide: landscaping.about.com/cs/lawns/a/clover_lawns_3.htm

Chemical Note

Grass-selective herbicides (sethoxydim, fluazifop) kill grass but not clover. However, organic approach (dense seeding, proper mowing) avoids chemicals entirely.

Benefits

• Self-fertilizing (nitrogen fixation).
• Drought tolerant.
• Low mowing (or no mow).
• Bee-friendly flowers.
• Soft underfoot.