When To Plant:
Microclover prefers cooler temperatures for germination and growth, so spring and fall are the best time to plant. Avoid planting at the hottest time of year. In spring, you can sow as early as two weeks before your last frost date. In fall, sow at least 4-6 weeks prior to your first average frost date, so that perennial clover plants have time to establish root systems before freezes hit. In spring you’ll have more weed pressure; planting in fall allows you to avoid the germination time of most weeds.
Grass & Clover Seed Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
View Complete Grass Seed Planting Guide and Soil Preparation Guide
1. Preparing the area for planting. We recommend leveling the planting area as much as possible to eliminate high or low spots. Till the soil if possible about 4-6 inches deep, as the soil should be loose and clump-free before planting. If your area is already somewhat bare and even, we recommend skipping the tilling process as it can promote new weed growth or unwanted grass growth. You can then add Plant Success Organics™ Granular Mycorrhizae Root Inoculant to improve seed germination.
2. After your soil is prepared, apply the seed at the recommended rate. Planting rates vary depending on the size of the seed:
To make sure you’re spreading the seed evenly, scatter 1/2 of the seed walking north to south and 1/2 of the seed walking east to west.
3. If you have poor soil, you could lightly apply an organic fertilizer after seeding, although this is not a necessary step for strong growth. We recommend using Yum Yum mix to amend your soil.
4. Many choose to cover their grass seed after planting, even though this is not necessary. If you do choose to cover your seed to help retain moisture and hold the seed in place, we recommend a maximum depth of 1/4”. You can cover the seed with topsoil, clean wheat or barley straw, or peat moss. Coated seeds such as Bermuda and Clover seeds should not be covered more than an 1/8” deep.
5. Water gently and regularly, keeping the seeds moist until they begin to sprout. This could mean watering more than once a day if you’re having a dry spell. Once the seeds sprout, water deeply and less frequently. This helps to ensure a deep rooted, healthy lawn or meadow.
Maintenance & Mowing:
No fertilizer needed. Avoid the use of herbicides because they will damage or kill Microclover.
Mowing will encourage Microclover plants to form their characteristic miniature habit. In areas where you want to maintain the Microclover at its minimum height, regular weekly mowing is recommended. Once you establish your Microclover lawn, mowing can be reduced to as little as once per month.
