The best times to plant clover in Wisconsin are in spring or late summer to early fall. These times offer the best conditions for clover to grow strong and healthy.
Let’s dive into why these seasons work best and how you can get your clover lawn off to a great start.
Best time to plant clover in Wisconsin
Planting clover at the right time helps your lawn thrive with natural fertilization and drought tolerance. In Wisconsin, timing is key due to our state’s cold winters and warm summers.
If you’re unsure if clover is right for you, check out “Should You Plant a Clover Lawn in Wisconsin?” for more details.
Spring (April to May)
The best time to plant clover is in spring, between April and mid-May. The weather is warming up and the soil is still full of moisture from the snow and rain. This helps the clover seeds settle in and start growing before the hot summer days.
Late summer to early fall (August to September)
If you miss spring, don’t worry — late summer to early fall (around August to September) is another great time to plant. Just make sure the area is well-irrigated and that there are at least six weeks of growing season left before the first frost. This gives the clover enough time to establish itself before winter arrives.
Dormant seeding (November)
For those who miss both windows, try dormant seeding in late fall. Plant the seeds when the soil temp drops below 40 F but before the ground freezes — typically around the first to second week of November in Wisconsin. At this temp, seeds won’t germinate until spring, giving them the best chance to sprout without competition from weeds.
How to plant a clover lawn in Wisconsin
Planting a clover lawn in Wisconsin is relatively easy, but it’s important to get the timing and conditions right for the best results.
1. Prepare the soil: Mow your lawn down to about 1 inch or aerate to loosen up the soil. This gives the clover seeds a better chance to take root.
2. Spread the seeds: For every 1,000 square feet of lawn, spread about 1.5 ounces of clover seeds for a clover-only lawn. Make sure they’re planted 1/8 to 1/4 inch deep. If you’re mixing clover with grass, aim for clover to make up 25% of the mix, which means spreading about 0.38 ounces of clover seeds per 1,000 square feet.
3. Water regularly: Water the area several times a day for the first few weeks to help the seeds germinate. Once established, clover is drought-tolerant and will need less water.
4. Mowing: Keep your clover lawn mowed to around 4 inches to maintain its neat appearance. If you want to reduce bee activity, mow before the clover starts flowering.
More lawn care resources for Wisconsin
For more lawn care tips for your Wisconsin yard, explore these helpful resources to get started on maintaining a healthy, beautiful lawn.
Lawn care:
- The Best Time to Plant Grass Seed in Wisconsin
- The Best Time to Dethatch Your Lawn in Wisconsin
- When Does Grass Stop Growing in Wisconsin?
- Month-to-Month Wisconsin Lawn Care Calendar
- The Best Ornamental Grasses for Wisconsin
- The Best Ground Cover Plants for Wisconsin
Weeds and pests:
- When to Apply Weed and Feed in Wisconsin
- When to Apply Crabgrass Preventer in Wisconsin
- When to Apply Grub Control in Wisconsin
- The Best Weed and Feed for Wisconsin Lawns
FAQ about clover
Is clover a good replacement for traditional turfgrass?
Clover is an excellent alternative to grass, thanks to its drought tolerance, minimal fertilizer needs, and nitrogen-fixing ability. You can also mix it with grasses like Kentucky bluegrass to create a fuller, more durable lawn.
If you’re also considering grass, take a look at the best grass seed for Wisconsin lawns to find the perfect match for your yard.
Do I need to aerate the lawn before planting clover?
Aerating your lawn before planting clover improves soil health and boosts seed germination by allowing more water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots. To learn more about the benefits and best practices for aeration, read: “The Best Time to Aerate Your Lawn in Wisconsin.”
Can clover help reduce weeds in my lawn?
Yes, clover can help reduce the spread of weeds by crowding out unwanted plants and filling in bare spots. While it’s not a complete weed control solution, clover does compete well with many weeds.
For tips on handling common weeds in your yard, check out “The Most Common Weeds in Wisconsin.”
Get help from lawn pros
Looking to plant clover but unsure where to start? A local lawn care pro can help you establish a clover lawn in Wisconsin and ensure it grows strong and healthy. Contact a pro today to get expert guidance and save yourself time and effort.
Main Image Credit: steve p2008 / Flickr / CC BY 2.0
