Figuring out when to plant clover in Arizona is the first step to a successful green cover or lawn alternative. The best planting times for this hardy plant are not a single date, but a window that shifts with our unique desert climate.
Getting the timing right is everything here. Plant too early in the summer heat, and seedlings will scorch. Plant too late in a short winter, and they won’t establish. This guide breaks down the simple schedule for both the low deserts and the high country.
When to Plant Clover in Arizona – Best Planting Times for
In Arizona, your planting time is dictated by the type of clover you choose and your elevation. The two main catagories are cool-season and warm-season clovers, each with its own ideal schedule.
For most Arizona gardeners, especially in the low deserts (Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma), cool-season clovers are the go-to choice. These include popular varieties like White Clover (a lawn substitute) and Crimson Clover (a showy cover crop).
Planting Cool-Season Clover in Low Deserts
The goal is to seed when soil temperatures have cooled enough for germination but while there’s still enough warm weather for growth before winter slows things down. The perfect window is narrow.
- Primary Window: Late September through mid-November.
- Ideal Target: Aim for October. This gives seeds time to establish roots before the coolest winter nights.
- Why It Works: Soil temps are below 85°F, which clover seeds prefer. The shortening days and (hopefully) occasional fall rains support growth.
You can sometimes overseed into existing grass in late October, similar to winter rye grass. Just ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Planting in Arizona’s High Country
For elevations above 4,500 feet (like Flagstaff, Prescott, Payson), winters are too harsh for fall planting. Here, you plant in spring after the last hard freeze.
- Primary Window: Late April through early June.
- Ideal Target: May is often safest. The soil has warmed, and the danger of a late snow is minimal.
- Key Consideration: These clovers will grow through the summer if provided with adequate water, as high country summers are milder.
What About Warm-Season Clovers?
Varieties like Strawberry Clover or some perennial types can handle more heat. In the low desert, these are best planted in very early spring (February to early March). This allows them to establish before the extreme summer heat arrives. They are less common for lawn use but can be effective groundcovers.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide for Arizona
Once you’ve got your timing down, follow these steps for the best results.
1. Choose Your Clover Type
- White Dutch Clover: Excellent low-growing lawn alternative, handles some foot traffic, fixes nitrogen.
- Crimson Clover: Beautiful red blooms, used primarily as a cover crop to enrich soil.
- Micro Clover: Even smaller leaves than white clover, creating a very uniform look.
2. Prepare the Soil
Clover isn’t overly fussy but needs a fair start. Remove weeds and large rocks. Loosen the top 1-2 inches of soil with a rake. You don’t need to add fertilizer; clover creates its own nitrogen.
If your soil is extremly poor or compacted, mixing in a little compost can help with moisture retention.
3. Seed and Rake
Broadcast the seeds evenly over the prepared area. A hand spreader helps for larger spaces. Use about 1-2 ounces of seed per 1,000 square feet for a lawn mix. Lightly rake the area again to cover seeds with about 1/4 inch of soil. Don’t bury them to deep.
4. Water Gently and Consistently
This is the most critical step for germination. Keep the seeded area consistently moist, but not soggy, for the first 7-14 days. Water lightly 2-3 times a day if needed to prevent the surface from drying out. Once seedlings are up (about 1 inch tall), you can reduce to deeper, less frequent watering.
Essential Care Tips for Arizona Clover
Your clover’s needs change with the seasons. Here’s how to keep it thriving.
Watering Through the Seasons
- Establishment: Frequent, light watering.
- Cool Season (Winter): Water deeply every 7-10 days, depending on rainfall.
- Hot/Dry Periods (May-June): Increase to deep watering every 4-7 days to keep it from going dormant.
Mowing and Maintenance
Clover lawns require less mowing than grass. Mow occasionally to about 3-4 inches high to encourage dense growth and remove old flowers if desired. Leaving the clippings returns nutrients to the soil. Avoid herbicide use, as it will kill your clover.
One of the bigest benefits is clover’s ability to fix nitrogen, reducing your need for fertilizer. It naturally improves your soil health over time.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Even with perfect timing, you might face a few issues. Here’s how to handle them.
Poor Germination: Usually caused by planting at the wrong time (soil too hot/cold) or letting seeds dry out. Always ensure consistent moisture and check soil temps.
Summer Die-Off: In the low desert, even established cool-season clover will often brown and go dormant in peak summer heat. This is normal. Reduce watering and it will usually green up again with cooler fall temps and resumed watering.
Bees: Clover flowers attract pollinators. This is a benefit for your garden’s ecosystem but a consideration if you have bee allergies. Mowing before flowers fully bloom can reduce bee activity in high-traffic lawn areas.
Weeds: Keep an eye out for invasive weeds, especially during establishment. Hand-pull weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the shallow clover roots.
Why Plant Clover in Arizona?
It’s a practical, eco-friendly choice for our state. Clover stays greener than grass with less water, chokes out many common weeds, and never needs nitrogen fertilizer. It’s soft underfoot and provides habitat for beneficial insects. For a low-maintenance, water-wise ground cover, it’s hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I plant clover in Arizona in the summer?
It is not recommended. Summer soil temperatures in the low desert are to high for most clover seeds to germinate, and seedlings would struggle with extreme heat and sun exposure.
What is the best clover for Arizona lawns?
White Dutch Clover or Micro Clover are the top choices for a lawn mix or standalone ground cover due to their low growth habit and durability.
How long does clover take to grow in Arizona?
With proper fall planting and watering, you should see germination in 7-10 days and a established cover within 4-6 weeks.
Can I mix clover with grass seed?
Yes, this is a popular strategy. The clover adds nitrogen to the soil, which benefits the grass, leading to a healthier, more drought-tolerant lawn overall. Overseed with clover in the fall.
Will clover come back every year in Arizona?
Many clovers are perennials or self-seeding annuals. In Arizona’s low deserts, cool-season clovers often act as short-lived perennials or reseed themselves if allowed to flower, providing coverage for several seasons with minimal replanting.
By following these simple timing guidelines and care tips, you can successfully establish a beautiful, resilient clover plot in your Arizona landscape. The key is respecting our climate’s rhythms—plant with the seasons, not against them, and you’ll be rewarded with a thriving green cover.