Growing White Clover from Seed: A Simple Guide

White clover (Trifolium repens) is a low-growing, nitrogen-fixing ground cover that’s easy to start from seed. Whether you’re overseeding a lawn or creating a pollinator patch, here’s how to succeed.

Seed Identification and Collection

White clover seeds are tiny, yellowish-brown, and kidney-shaped, held in small, round seed heads that turn brown when ripe. If collecting your own, wait until the heads are fully dry, then crush them gently to release the seeds.

Sowing Instructions

1. Prepare soil: Loosen the top 1–2 inches; remove weeds.
2. Sow: Scatter seeds evenly over the surface (about 1/4 lb per 1,000 sq ft).
3. Cover lightly: Rake gently or sprinkle a thin layer of soil/compost—seeds need light to germinate.
4. Water: Keep consistently moist but not soggy until germination (7–10 days).

Care After Germination

Once seedlings are established, reduce watering frequency. White clover tolerates mowing and foot traffic well. For best results, sow in early spring or early fall when temperatures are mild and rainfall is reliable.

Tip: If starting indoors, use shallow trays, provide bright light, and transplant outdoors after hardening off for 10 days in shade.