Alsike clover (Trifolium hybridum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Alsike clover on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Fabaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 5–35 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Alsike clover
Trifolium hybridum, commonly known as Alsike clover, is a perennial forage legume prized for its hardiness and nitrogen-fixing abilities. It features trifoliate leaves and spherical flower heads ranging from white to pale pink, blooming from late spring through summer. It is an excellent choice for meadows, pastures, or as a ground cover in rural gardens, adding a natural touch and benefiting the soil.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It prefers full sun to partial shade exposure and adapts to a wide range of soils, though it thrives in moist, well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Watering should be regular to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during dry periods, but avoid waterlogging. It is resilient to various conditions and does not require additional fertilization due to its nitrogen-fixing ability; a common mistake to avoid is overwatering in heavy soils, which can lead to root rot.
How to save a dying Alsike clover
- Warning signs
- Yellowish/brown, wilted leaves, soft stems. Slow or no growth.
- First aid
- Check soil moisture. If dry, water deeply. If waterlogged, aerate roots.
- What kills it
- Overwatering (root rot) or prolonged drought. Insufficient direct light.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't fully rotten. Act quickly.