If you’re planning a clover lawn or a cover crop in Wisconsin, knowing when to plant clover is your first step to success. The optimal timing for planting depends heavily on the type of clover and your specific goals, but getting it right ensures strong germination and a healthy stand.
Planting at the correct time gives the seeds the best conditions to sprout and establish roots before facing extreme summer heat or winter cold. This guide will walk you through the best windows for different clover varieties in Wisconsin’s unique climate.
When To Plant Clover In Wisconsin
For most of Wisconsin, the two primary planting windows are in the early spring and late summer to early fall. These seasons offer the cool, moist conditions that clover seeds favor for germination.
Spring Planting in Wisconsin
Spring planting is a popular choice, especially for annual clovers. The goal is to sow seeds after the danger of a hard frost has passed but while the soil is still cool and spring rains are likely.
- Best Time Frame: Aim for mid-April to late May. Soil temperatures should be consistently above 45°F.
- Pros: Takes advantage of spring moisture and provides a full season of growth for annual types.
- Cons: Can face competition from aggressive spring weeds. Late spring heat can stress young seedlings if they aren’t established.
- Ideal For: Annual clovers like Crimson, or for areas where fall planting is not feasible.
Fall Planting in Wisconsin
Fall is often considered the absolute best time to plant perennial clovers, such as White Clover or Medium Red Clover, in Wisconsin.
- Best Time Frame: Target late August through mid-September. This is often called “dormant seeding.”
- Pros: Less weed competition. Cooler temperatures are ideal for growth. Fall rains provide moisture. The plant establishes roots before winter and explodes in growth the following spring.
- Cons: A very late planting (after early October) may not allow seedlings to establish enough before winter freeze.
- Ideal For: Perennial clovers used for lawns, pastures, or long-term cover crops.
Choosing Your Clover Type
The species you choose directly impacts your planting schedule. Here’s a breakdown of common clovers for Wisconsin.
White Clover (Perennial)
This low-growing perennial is perfect for lawns and pasture mixes. It’s hardy and tolerates foot traffic.
- Optimal Planting: Early fall (September) is prime. Early spring (April-May) is also acceptable.
Medium Red Clover (Short-Lived Perennial)
A classic Wisconsin cover crop and forage plant, it typically lives for 2-3 years.
- Optimal Planting: Early spring (April) or late summer (August). It establishes quickly.
Crimson Clover (Annual)
This showy annual is used for cover cropping and attracts pollinators with its beautiful red flowers.
- Optimal Planting: Early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. It will not survive Wisconsin winters.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Once you’ve picked your time and seed, follow these steps for the best results.
1. Site Preparation
Good seed-to-soil contact is critical. Mow existing vegetation very short and remove the thatch. You can lightly till the soil or use a rake to scratch the surface. The goal is a firm, not fluffy, seedbed.
2. Seeding
Clover seeds are tiny. Mix them with sand or a carrier to ensure even distribution. Broadcast by hand or use a spreader. Do not bury them deeply; a light raking or simply walking over the area to press them in is sufficient. Aim for about 1/4 inch depth at most.
3. Watering
Keep the seedbed consistently moist for the first 4-6 weeks, especially if rain is scarce. Light, frequent watering is key to avoid washing the small seeds away.
4. Initial Care
Hold off on fertilizing at planting; clover fixes its own nitrogen. Avoid using broadleaf weed herbicides, as they will kill your clover. Mow for the first time when the clover reaches about 6-8 inches tall to encourage thick, low growth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting Too Deep: This is the number one cause of failure. Clover seeds need light to germinate well.
- Wrong Soil pH: Clover thrives in a soil pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Test your soil and add lime if it’s too acidic, which is common in Wisconsin.
- Ignoring Soil Temperature: Planting in cold, wet soil leads to rot. A simple soil thermometer is a great investment.
- Underwatering at Start: Don’t rely solely on rain forecasts during the critical germination period.
FAQs: Planting Clover in Wisconsin
Can I plant clover in the summer in Wisconsin?
It’s not recommended. Summer heat and dry conditions make it very hard for clover seedlings to survive without constant, careful watering.
What is the best clover for a Wisconsin lawn?
White Clover (especially micro-clover varieties) is excellent for lawns due to its low growth, drought tolerance, and nitrogen-fixing ability.
How late can you plant clover in fall?
Aim to seed at least 6 weeks before the first hard frost. This allows for root establishment. In northern Wisconsin, this means by mid-September; in southern zones, you may have until early October.
Do I need to inoculate clover seed?
Yes, it’s highly recommended. Inoculant coats the seed with bacteria (Rhizobia) that allows the clover to fix nitrogen. Ensure you get the right inoculant for your clover type (e.g., one for true clovers, not for peas or beans).
Will clover come back every year?
Perennial clovers like White and Red Clover will come back. Annual clovers like Crimson will die after frost and need to be reseeded each year if desired.
Timing your clover planting correctly in Wisconsin sets the stage for a lush, green, and beneficial stand. By choosing the right season for your clover type and following simple preparation and care steps, you’ll be rewarded with a thriving plot that beautifies your landscape, enriches your soil, and supports local pollinators for seasons to come. Remember, the extra effort in planning your planting date pays off significantly in the health and vigor of your clover.