Small-leaved white clover (variety ‘Rivendel’) is an extremely durable and low-maintenance low-growing legume, which is ideally suited for the Estonian climate. This variety stands out for its high frost and wear resistance, successfully surviving even the harshest winters and tolerating frequent mowing well.
White clover is an excellent choice for an ecological garden, as the plant acts as a natural fertilizer. Nodulating bacteria living on the clover’s roots fix nitrogen from the air and enrich the surrounding soil, making the entire lawn more vigorous and greener. In addition to its practical value as a soil improver, clover is a well-known and valued honey plant, which attracts beneficial pollinators to the garden, thereby also promoting the yield of fruit trees and berry bushes. A 300-gram package is sufficient to sow an area of up to 300 square meters.
Usage and Cultivation Instructions:
-
Sowing time: The best time for direct sowing outdoors is early spring (once the soil has dried), late summer, or early autumn.
-
Location: Prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. Tolerates most soil types, including poorer soils.
-
Sowing depth: 0.5–1 cm. Avoid sowing too deep, as small seeds may not germinate.
-
Application rate: 300 g = 300 m² (1 gram per square meter).
-
Sowing method: Direct sowing onto prepared (loosened and weed-free) soil or into bare spots in existing lawns. After sowing, roll or press the surface lightly to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Tips and recommendations:
-
Since clover seeds are very fine, mix them with dry sand (in a 1:3 ratio) before sowing. This makes the sowing more even and helps prevent the seeds from being concentrated in one place.
-
Do not use strong nitrogen fertilizers for clover-grass mixes. Excessive nitrogen promotes excessive growth of grasses, which can smother the low-growing clover.