Clover

Trifolium repens

Aries 

Natural cycles

Sustainability

Clover is a small perennial plant that has three leaves and is often found in meadows, lawns and pastures. It is a common name for plants in the genus Trifolium, which means "three-leaved". Some clovers have the rare four leaf structure, which are considered to be a symbol of good luck. Plant leaves are oval shaped and are typically green with a faint, lighter green or white "V" or crescent pattern near the base. Clover contributes to sustainability of nearby plants: flowers are a rich source of nectar and pollen, which attracts bees, butterflies and other pollinators. The presence of clover increases pollination rates for surrounding crops.

Clovers are generally low-growing plants. White clover, for example, tends to spread along the ground, creating a dense mat. Red clover is more upright and can reach heights of up to 20-30 inches (50-75 cm). Clover likes moist, cool climates with well-drained soil.

Clover plays a beneficial role in sustainable agriculture, soil health and biodiversity. Clovers are known for their ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, which enhances soil fertility.  Clovers convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that plants can use, enriching the soil. Clover's dense root system helps stabilize soil and reduces erosion. Clover is a high-protein, palatable forage for livestock. It can be grazed or harvested for hay. 

Clover represents sustainability for the earth, for animals, and ultimately for people. Clover is a benefit for the earth: it enhances soil nitrogen, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Future crops planted in the same soil benefit from the enriched nitrogen, providing food for animals and people. Clover is often used to restore nutrients in soil that housed nutrient-draining crops. Clover also suppresses weeds naturally. 

Clover is easy to grow - it will germinate from seed thrown on the ground. 

Clover provides a nutrient-rich food source for domesticated and wild animals. It assists in the food chain: cattle, sheep, goats and horses graze on clover in pastures or eat it in hay. Rabbits, deer, groundhogs and wild turkeys also eat clover. 

Clover fits into the cycles of support for animals and our growing cycles. People with a passion for clover may find they also easily fit into working in areas of nature of with part of natural cycles.

Well known species of Clover:

• White Clover (Trifolium repens): A low-growing perennial plant with white or pinkish flowers, commonly found in lawns and pastures. It's often used as a ground cover due to its ability to spread quickly.
• Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Taller than white clover, this species has red or purple flowers and is often grown as a fodder crop for livestock or as a cover crop to improve soil health.
• Lesser Trefol (Trifolium dubium): Native to Europe and is often considered the plant representing the Irish Shamrock. Produces tiny yellow flowers.
• Crimson Clover (Trifolium incarnatum): Known for its vibrant crimson flowers, this clover is frequently used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion and improve soil quality.

 Four leaf clovers are a genetic anomaly. Chances of finding one are one in 5,000 to 10,000.