If you’re wondering when to plant clover in Oregon, you’ve come to the right place. Timing is everything for a successful, lush stand of clover, whether you’re fixing nitrogen in your garden soil, creating a bee-friendly lawn, or establishing pasture. Oregon’s diverse climates, from the rainy coast to the dry high desert, mean the best planting times for clover can shift by several weeks.
This guide will walk you through the optimal windows for each region. We’ll cover the different types of clover and give you clear, step-by-step instructions to get your seeds growing strong.
When to Plant Clover in Oregon – Best Planting Times for
For most of Oregon, there are two primary planting seasons: spring and late summer to early fall. The classic choice is fall planting. This allows the clover to establish roots during the cool, moist weather and be ready for robust growth in spring.
Oregon’s Climate Zones and Planting Dates
Oregon is not one single climate. To nail the timing, you need to think about your specific area.
Western Oregon (Willamette Valley, Coast, Portland Area)
This region has mild, wet winters and dry summers. Fall planting is highly effective here.
- Fall Planting: Aim for mid-August to late September. This gives seeds time to germinate and grow before winter cold sets in. The fall rains provide perfect moisture.
- Spring Planting: If you miss the fall window, plant from early April to mid-May. You’ll need to be prepared to irrigate as summer dryness arrives.
Central and Eastern Oregon (High Desert, Bend, Ontario)
These areas have colder winters, hotter summers, and less overall precipitation. Spring planting is often more reliable.
- Spring Planting: Plant from early April through May, once the ground has thawed and nighttime temperatures are consistently above 40°F. Early planting uses winter moisture.
- Late Summer Planting: A risky but possible window exists in very late August. This depends entirely on receiving enough autumn rain for germination before frost.
Southern Oregon (Medford, Grants Pass)
With hotter, drier summers and milder winters, timing is a blend.
- Fall Planting: Best from late September through October. This avoids the extreme summer heat.
- Spring Planting: Can be done in March or April, but irrigation through the first summer is critical.
Choosing the Right Clover for Oregon
Your planting time can also depend on which clover you choose. Here are the common types:
- White Clover (Dutch or Ladino): Perfect for lawns, pasture mixes, and ground cover. It’s perennial and handles foot traffic. Plant in spring or fall.
- Crimson Clover: An annual with stunning red flowers that bees love. It’s a fantastic winter cover crop west of the Cascades. Sow in fall.
- Red Clover: A short-lived perennial often used for hay, pasture, or as a cover crop. It does well in cooler, moist soils. Plant in spring or early fall.
- Subterranean Clover: Unique for burring its seed heads. Excellent for dryland pasture in western Oregon. Always plant in the fall.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Clover
Once you’ve got your timing right, follow these steps for success.
1. Site Preparation
Clover seeds are tiny, so good seed-to-soil contact is vital. Start by removing weeds and existing vegetation. You can till lightly or use a rake to scuff up the top 1-2 inches of soil. The goal is a fine, firm seedbed, not deep fluffy soil.
2. Soil Testing and Amendment
Clover thrives in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Oregon soils can be acidic, especially west of the Cascades. A simple soil test can tell you if you need to add lime to raise the pH. Clover produces it’s own nitrogen, so a high-nitrogen fertilizer is not needed.
3. Seeding
Mix clover seed with a carrier like sand or sawdust to help spread it evenly. Broadcast the seed by hand or with a spreader. Use about 2-4 pounds of seed per acre for pasture mixes, or 1-2 ounces per 1,000 square feet for lawn areas. Don’t bury the seeds deep—just rake them in lightly or roll the area to press them into the soil.
4. Watering and Initial Care
Keep the seedbed consistently moist for the first 4-6 weeks. This usually means light, daily watering if rain isn’t cooperating. Once established, clover is quite drought-tolerant, especially perennial types.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting Too Deep: This is the number one reason for failure. Clover seeds need light to germinate well.
- Wrong Season for the Type: Don’t plant a fall-annual like crimson clover in spring; it will bolt quickly in the heat.
- Skipping Inoculation: Always use a fresh, clover-specific rhizobium inoculant on the seeds. This helps them form the nitrogen-fixing nodules and is essential for good growth.
- Forgetting About Birds: Birds love clover seed. Using a light layer of straw mulch can help protect the seed if they become a problem in your area.
FAQs: Planting Clover in Oregon
Can I plant clover in the winter in Oregon?
You cannot sow seed on frozen or saturated ground. However, “frost seeding” in late winter (February-March) is a technique where you broadcast seed on existing ground. The freeze-thaw cycles work the seed into the soil for spring germination. This works well in western Oregon.
How long does it take for clover to germinate?
With adequate moisture and soil temps above 50°F, most clovers germinate in 7-14 days. It can be slower in cooler fall weather.
Do I need to mow my clover lawn?
Occasional mowing (3-4 inches high) encourages dense growth and can promote more flowers if you cut after blooming. It’s not needed as often as a grass lawn.
Will clover take over my grass lawn?
It will mix with your grass, not completly replace it unless your grass is very thin. A mixed clover-grass lawn is healthier, greener with less fertilizer, and supports pollinators.
Is clover a good cover crop for vegetable gardens?
Absolutely. Crimson or red clover planted in fall protects soil over winter, adds organic matter, and fixes nitrogen when you till it under in spring before planting vegetables.
By matching the right clover type with the ideal planting window for your part of Oregon, you’ll set yourself up for success. With minimal care, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, beneficial plant that improves your soil and supports local wildlife. Just remember the key: for western Oregon, think fall; for eastern areas, lean toward spring; and always prepare your seedbed carefully.