Bees need our help. A simple way to give them a boost is by planting clover. It’s a fantastic food source and easy to grow. I’ve been gardening for years, and clover is always part of my plan to support local pollinators. Let’s look at the best clover options to keep your buzzing buddies happy and healthy.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Dutch White Clover: Classic choice, low-growing, spreads easily.
- Crimson Clover: Eye-catching red blooms, great for soil improvement.
- Alsike Clover: Tolerates acidic soil, good for pastures.
- Red Clover: Larger leaves and flowers, attracts a wide range of pollinators.
- Strawberry Clover: Salt-tolerant, good for coastal areas.
Top 5 Best Clover For Bees
1. Dutch White Clover
Dutch White Clover is a popular pick for lawns and pastures. It’s known for its low-growing habit and ability to spread, creating a dense ground cover. This clover is a favorite among beekeepers and gardeners looking to support pollinators.
Pros:
- ✅ Low-maintenance and easy to grow
- ✅ Attracts bees and other beneficial insects
- ✅ Tolerates various soil conditions
Cons:
- ❌ Can be invasive in some areas
- ❌ May require mowing to prevent it from flowering too much in lawns
- ❌ Doesn’t thrive in extremely dry conditions
Verdict: A solid choice for most gardens and lawns seeking a low-maintenance, bee-friendly option. It’s especially good if you want a ground cover that also benefits pollinators.
2. Crimson Clover
Crimson Clover stands out with its vibrant red flowers. It’s not just pretty; it’s also an excellent cover crop that enriches the soil. Bees absolutely adore it, making it a win-win for both your garden and local pollinators.
Pros:
- ✅ Stunning red blooms add visual appeal
- ✅ Improves soil health by fixing nitrogen
- ✅ Fast-growing and easy to establish
Cons:
- ❌ Annual, so it needs to be replanted each year
- ❌ May not be as cold-hardy as other clover varieties
- ❌ Can become aggressive if not managed properly
Verdict: If you’re looking for a beautiful and beneficial annual clover, Crimson Clover is a great option. It’s perfect for adding color to your garden while supporting bees and improving soil quality.
3. Alsike Clover
Alsike Clover is a versatile option that’s particularly well-suited for acidic soils. It’s often used in pastures and meadows, providing a valuable food source for livestock and pollinators alike. This clover is a reliable choice for challenging soil conditions.
Pros:
- ✅ Tolerates acidic and poorly drained soils
- ✅ Attracts bees and other pollinators
- ✅ Good for pasture mixes
Cons:
- ❌ Can cause photosensitivity in some livestock if consumed in large quantities
- ❌ May not be as drought-tolerant as other clover varieties
- ❌ Can be less competitive in highly fertile soils
Verdict: If you have acidic or poorly drained soil, Alsike Clover is an excellent choice. It’s a reliable option for pastures and meadows, providing a valuable food source for bees and other pollinators.
4. Red Clover
Red Clover is known for its larger leaves and flowers compared to other clover varieties. It’s a perennial that attracts a wide range of pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any garden or pasture. This clover is a robust and reliable choice for supporting bee populations.
Pros:
- ✅ Attracts a wide range of pollinators
- ✅ Perennial, so it comes back year after year
- ✅ Improves soil health by fixing nitrogen
Cons:
- ❌ Can be aggressive and spread quickly
- ❌ May require mowing to prevent it from becoming too tall
- ❌ Can be susceptible to certain diseases in humid conditions
Verdict: If you want a perennial clover that attracts a wide range of pollinators and improves soil health, Red Clover is a great option. Just be mindful of its potential to spread aggressively.
5. Strawberry Clover
Strawberry Clover is a unique variety that’s known for its tolerance to saline soils. It’s often used in coastal areas and other environments with high salt content. This clover is a valuable option for challenging soil conditions, while still providing a food source for bees.
Pros:
- ✅ Tolerates saline soils
- ✅ Attracts bees and other pollinators
- ✅ Can be used as a ground cover in coastal areas
Cons:
- ❌ May not be as widely available as other clover varieties
- ❌ Can be slow to establish
- ❌ May not be as cold-hardy as other clover varieties
Verdict: If you live in a coastal area or have saline soil, Strawberry Clover is an excellent choice. It’s a unique and valuable option for supporting bees in challenging environments.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right clover for your bees involves considering a few key factors. Here’s what to think about:
- Soil Type: Some clovers, like Alsike, tolerate acidic soils better. Others, like Strawberry Clover, thrive in salty conditions. Know your soil!
- Climate: Consider your local climate. Some clovers are more cold-hardy than others. Crimson Clover, for example, might not survive harsh winters.
- Perennial vs. Annual: Perennial clovers come back year after year, while annuals need to be replanted. Red Clover is a good perennial choice.
- Growth Habit: Think about how the clover will spread. Dutch White Clover is known for its spreading habit, which can be good or bad depending on your needs.
- Intended Use: Are you planting clover in a lawn, pasture, or garden? This will influence your choice. Dutch White Clover is great for lawns, while Red Clover is often used in pastures.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match different clover varieties. A blend can provide a more diverse and resilient food source for bees.
FAQs
Q: When is the best time to plant clover?
A: Spring or early fall are generally the best times to plant clover. This gives the clover enough time to establish before extreme temperatures hit.
Q: How do I prepare the soil for planting clover?
A: Clear the area of weeds and debris. Loosen the soil and consider adding compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Q: How often should I water clover?
A: Water regularly until the clover is established. After that, clover is fairly drought-tolerant and doesn’t need frequent watering unless conditions are very dry.
Q: Will clover attract other insects besides bees?
A: Yes, clover can attract other beneficial insects, such as butterflies and ladybugs. It can also attract some unwanted pests, so keep an eye on your plants.
Q: Can I mow clover?
A: Yes, you can mow clover, but it’s best to let it flower at least once to provide a food source for bees. Mowing too frequently can prevent flowering.
Conclusion
Planting clover is a simple and effective way to support bee populations. Whether you choose Dutch White Clover for your lawn, Crimson Clover for its beauty, or Alsike Clover for its hardiness, you’re making a positive impact. Consider your specific needs and conditions, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a bee-friendly haven. Happy gardening!
This site contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click on a link and buy a product, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
