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Alsike Clover is a quick growing variety of clover that is similar to red clover but matures 1 to 2 weeks sooner. This clover variety can tolerate heavier, clay soils that have ample moisture. The small white and pink flowers are attractive to beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies and make a great ground cover for unused garden beds or pollinator sanctuaries. This biannual flower is known as a ‘nitrogen fixer’ and is popularly grown for its ability to restore soil structure and add nitrogen to depleted soils. Alsike Clover also tolerates some shade, making it a great plant to grow under heavy nitrogen feeding crops such as corn to ensure healthy yields and soil maintenance. Even grazing animals love this plant as it is an excellent source of high protein forage.
NAME: Clover (Trifolium Hybridum)
VARIETY: Alsike
DAYS TO MATURITY: 55 – 65 days
POLLINATION: Open Pollinated
TYPE: Biennial
HARDINESS ZONE: Zones 3 – 8
SUNLIGHT: Full Sun – Partial Sun
SOIL: Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH 6.1 – 7.5
SPACING: 4 – 8 inches
PLANT HEIGHT: 12 – 24 inches
TEMP: 55 – 85ºF
These seeds do not required stratification.
To learn more about Stratification, click here!
While starting Alsike Clover seeds indoors is not recommended due to its preference for direct sowing, it’s still feasible to do so if desired.
If you choose to start seeds indoors, be aware that Alsike Clover may not transplant well due to its delicate roots.
Use biodegradable pots or trays to minimize root disturbance during transplanting.
Fill the containers with a well-draining potting mix.
Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the soil and lightly press them in.
Keep the soil consistently moist and maintain a temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C) for optimal germination.
Place the containers in a location with plenty of sunlight or under grow lights.
Transplant the seedlings outdoors once they have developed several sets of true leaves, being careful not to disturb the roots.
Directly sow Alsike Clover seeds outdoors in early spring or late summer to early fall.
Choose a location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Prepare the planting area by loosening the soil to a depth of about 6-8 inches and removing any debris or weeds.
Scatter the seeds evenly over the prepared soil surface.
Lightly rake the soil to cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil.
Water gently to settle the seeds into the soil.
Keep the soil consistently moist until germination, which typically occurs within 7-14 days.
Once Alsike Clover plants have established, they require minimal care.
Provide supplemental water during dry periods, especially in the summer months.
Consider mowing the clover occasionally to encourage branching and denser growth.
Avoid excessive fertilizer, as clover can fix nitrogen from the air and may not require additional nutrients.
Monitor for signs of disease or pest infestation, though clover is relatively resistant to both.
Alsike Clover can be a valuable addition to pastureland, as it provides nutritious forage for livestock and helps improve soil health.
Alsike Clover can be harvested for forage or hay production once it reaches a height of 12-18 inches.
Harvesting can be done using conventional mowing equipment.
For hay production, harvest when the clover is in early bloom for the best balance of yield and quality.
Allow the clover to dry thoroughly before baling or storing.
