Crimson Clover blooms arranged in a clear vase and a glass teapot full of clover tea.
A close-up micro view of the Crimson Clover flowers.
A pair of Crimson Clover blooms with a quarter to show their size on a white background.
A field of Crimson Clover growing in the trial gardens at Baker Creek.
A bee gathering pollen from Crimson Clover flowers in the gardens at Baker Creek.
Crimson Clover tea in a glass teapot surrounded by flowers and foliage on a white background.
A close up macro view of Crimson Clover flowers on a slate background.
Crimson Clover blooms arranged in a clear vase and a glass teapot full of clover tea.
A close-up micro view of the Crimson Clover flowers.
A pair of Crimson Clover blooms with a quarter to show their size on a white background.
A field of Crimson Clover growing in the trial gardens at Baker Creek.
A bee gathering pollen from Crimson Clover flowers in the gardens at Baker Creek.
Crimson Clover tea in a glass teapot surrounded by flowers and foliage on a white background.
A close up macro view of Crimson Clover flowers on a slate background.

Clover Seeds,
Crimson

4.714 ReviewsSKU: #GS136Min. seed count: 2000
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Description

(Trifolium incarnatum). Also known as Italian Clover. Nitrogen-fixing legume often grown for livestock feed or wildlife forage, yet pretty enough for the flower garden! Crimson flower heads are great bee forage. Planted thickly, it also makes a superior cover or green manure crop, able to smother out weeds and fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil. This lovely, versatile plant should be much more widely grown!

Growing Tips: Crimson clover grows best in well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0, and prefers cool temperatures, typically between 45 and 80 F. It is an easy-to-care-for plant, although the plants will require consistent moisture in order to thrive.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Trifolium incarnatum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
6–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–10
Days to Maturity
90–120
Planting Depth
¼–½ in.
Plant Spacing
3–4 in.
Ideal Temperature
45–80°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Crimson clover is best planted in spring or fall in warmer regions, around 4-6 weeks before the first frost, so it can establish roots before winter. In cooler climates, it’s planted in early spring as soon as the soil can be worked. The plant doesn't fare well in extreme heat or cold, so it’s important to time planting based on your region. If you’re not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds about 1/4-1/2 inch deep into a well-prepared seedbed. If sowing outdoors, lightly cover them with soil and keep the bed moderately moist until germination is finished, typically in 7 to 10 days. Inoculation (coating the seeds with rhizobia inoculum) is recommended.

How to Grow

Once established, Crimson clover requires minimal care. Water it regularly, particularly in dry spells, but avoid waterlogging the soil. It fixes nitrogen in the soil, so additional fertilization is usually unnecessary unless there is a significant nutrient deficiency. Mulching helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Mow when flowers appear.

How to Save Seeds

  • Seeds are ready to harvest when the flower centers turn brown and stems begin to yellow.
  • Cut heads and crush and roll dried flower heads between your fingers to dislodge the seeds.
  • Pour into a wire strainer or over a screen to separate chaff from seed.
  • Store seeds in a cool, dark, dry place over winter.

FAQ

Can Crimson clover survive winter?

In mild climates, fall-planted crimson clover can overwinter and continue growing in spring. In areas with harsh winters, it may not survive unless planted in spring.

How does Crimson clover benefit soil?

As a nitrogen-fixing plant, clover enriches the soil, making it an excellent green manure crop. It also improves soil structure and prevents erosion.

Can Crimson clover become invasive?

It is typically non-invasive but can spread if not managed. Regular mowing or cutting before it goes to seed can prevent overgrowth.

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