Gene Caballero, Co-founder of Greenpal | GreenPal
Clover lawns are gaining attention as an alternative to traditional grass lawns due to their eco-friendly and low-maintenance characteristics. A recent survey of 205 homeowners revealed mixed opinions on the switch to clover, with some enthusiastic about its benefits and others hesitant due to potential drawbacks.
The survey results indicated that 20.5% of respondents were "very likely" and 28.3% were "likely" to switch to a clover lawn. Meanwhile, 15.1% remained neutral, while 25.4% were "unlikely," and 10.7% were "very unlikely" to make the change.
Clover lawns require less mowing and watering compared to traditional grass lawns and eliminate the need for fertilizers or pesticides. Clover naturally enriches soil nitrogen levels, which can reduce chemical use in lawn maintenance. It also attracts pollinators such as bees, enhancing local biodiversity.
However, clover's inability to withstand heavy foot traffic is a concern for some homeowners. One respondent noted, "We're always out in our yard. Our kids just do too much out there for us to consider moving over to a clover lawn." Additionally, clover's tendency to spread into unwanted areas like garden beds poses another challenge.
White clover (Trifolium repens) is commonly used in lawns due to its hardiness and adaptability, while micro-clover offers a lower-growing option for those seeking a more formal appearance.
Despite these challenges, clover remains an attractive option for those interested in reducing water usage and chemical dependency in lawn care. Its ability to thrive with minimal maintenance makes it appealing for environmentally conscious homeowners.