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Drawbacks
Of The Popular Yard Trend That's Popping Up On Lawns
By WILL FORD
Clover lawns have become more prevalent as eco-friendly, low-maintenance alternatives to traditional grass lawns, and while they offer advantages, there are also some downsides.
Clover is easier to maintain than typical grass, as it needs less water and fertilizer and its density inhibits weeds. Plus, its lush greenery and flowers are visually appealing.
However, a clover lawn isn’t as tolerant of frequent play and pet activity as grass, and it can thin out in areas. Its flowers and stems also stain clothes, shoes, and pet paws.
Also, while some may like the natural look of a clover lawn’s greenery and flowers, it may not appeal to those who prefer the classic uniform, manicured look of a traditional lawn.
Furthermore, while some grass varieties maintain their green color during winter, many types of clover die back in winter and may even need to be reseeded to revive their look.
Clover is nitrogen-fixing and prefers slightly acidic soil, which can cause imbalances in the soil, favoring certain plants over others and disrupting the existing ecosystem.
Finally, some types of clover can be invasive, outcompeting other plants for resources and taking over your yard, so it needs to be managed to maintain a harmonious landscape.