Lawn guide
Micro-clover vs Dutch white clover
Both micro-clover and Dutch white clover are Trifolium repens -- the same species. Micro-clover is a miniaturized variety (Trifolium repens var. Pipolina) selected specifically for lawn use because of its smaller leaf size, lower growth habit, and reduced flower production. The choice between them.
Both micro-clover and Dutch white clover are Trifolium repens — the same species. Micro-clover is a miniaturized variety (Trifolium repens var. Pipolina) selected specifically for lawn use because of its smaller leaf size, lower growth habit, and reduced flower production. The choice between them is practical rather than philosophical: where do you want them, how are you managing the lawn, and how much flowering is acceptable?
Side-by-side comparison
| Characteristic | Dutch white clover | Micro-clover |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf size | 0.5—1 inch leaflets | 0.25—0.4 inch leaflets |
| Plant height | 6—12 inches unmowed | 2—4 inches unmowed |
| Flower production | Frequent; visible | Much reduced; nearly absent at 3-inch mow |
| Bee attraction | High | Low to moderate |
| Nitrogen fixation | 50—150 lbs N/acre/yr | Lower per plant; similar in dense stand |
| Blend appearance in grass mix | Visible texture contrast | Blends more naturally |
| Seed cost | Lower | Higher (2—4x Dutch white) |
| Seed availability | Widely available | Specialty suppliers |
| Seeding rate in mix | 2—4 oz/1,000 sq ft | 1—2 oz/1,000 sq ft |