Sure, those pink red clover blossoms are pretty to look at, but before you let them take over, you might want to think twice. There’s a reason most gardeners toss this “ornamental” plant straight into the weed category. Let’s dive into why it has such a reputation and how you can keep your red clover under control while still enjoying its perks.
Natural Spreading
Red clover is famous (or maybe infamous) for its ability to spread like wildfire if you don’t step in. For starters, it’s a pro at seed dispersal. It literally flings its seeds across the garden, allowing it to pop up in spots you never intended.
But seeds aren’t its only trick—it also spreads through root runners. The main taproot can reach down a staggering 6 feet, sending out tiny offshoots that tunnel through the soil. Since red clover isn’t picky about where it lives, you’ll find new sprouts poking up just about everywhere.
Keeping Uncontrolled Growth in Check
For most of us, red clover’s DIY landscaping approach is a major headache. If you give it an inch, it’ll take the whole yard. Even the tiniest bit of root left in the ground can grow back and bloom, and getting those deep roots out is no easy task.
To keep it from taking over, your best bet is to mow down the blossoms before they fade—this prevents seeds from forming in the first place. For clover in your flower beds, you’ll need to dig it out. Just remember: those roots go deep, so make sure you get the whole thing!
Growing Red Clover on Your Terms
Despite its aggressive nature, red clover actually has some great qualities (more on that below), so you might actually *want* to grow it intentionally. You can plant it anytime from April through September using these methods:
Growing from Seed
- Use a deep pot to accommodate the long roots.
- Or, scatter the seeds across a garden bed.
- Don’t bury them! Red clover seeds need light to germinate, so just press them onto the surface.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Growing from Runners
You don’t actually need to divide the main root to get new plants. It’s much easier to use the many runners the plant naturally produces. Just snip them off and tuck them into the soil about 8 inches apart.
Why We Love Red Clover
Did you know red clover is actually edible? This “weed” is surprisingly useful in the kitchen. Plus, if you decide to grow it, your local bees and bumblebees will definitely thank you for the snack!
