Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray, also known as Lodgepole clover or Round-headed clover, is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Western North America, including British Columbia and California.
Appearance
Trifolium amplectens has a low-growing, creeping habit and can reach a height of up to 60cm. Its leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet being ovate to oblong in shape, and it has a rounded, dense flower head that is typically a deep pink to purple color.
Uses
Lodgepole clover is an excellent forage plant for livestock and provides a source of nectar for bees and other pollinators. Native American tribes also used it for medicinal purposes, particularly as a poultice for skin irritations.
In addition to its practical uses, Trifolium amplectens has also been cultivated for its aesthetic value, as it can be used as a ground cover or to add color and texture to a garden.
Light Requirements
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray grows best in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Insufficient light may cause stunted growth or poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray prefers cool temperatures. It thrives in regions with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). High temperatures may cause the plant to wilt or stunt growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It prefers sandy or loamy soil with good organic matter, although it can grow in a clay-loam soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray can be grown from seeds or seedlings. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH. The best time to plant the seeds is in the fall, just before the first frost. If growing from seedlings, transplant them in early spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
This plant requires consistent moisture, but the soil should not be waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly once a week, making sure the soil is moist to a depth of 6-8 inches. During periods of drought, increase watering frequency as needed.
Fertilization
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray does not require heavy fertilization. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Cut back the previous year's growth to about 4-6 inches above the ground. Removing older growth will encourage the plant to produce new, vigorous growth and more flowers. Additionally, deadheading spent blooms throughout the growing season will help prolong the flowering period.
Propagation of Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray, commonly called the clasping leaved clover, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the western United States, ranging from California to North Dakota. Propagation of Trifolium amplectens can be done through several methods.
Propagation by Seed
The easiest way to propagate Trifolium amplectens is by seed. Seeds can be sown directly into the garden bed in the spring or summer, or they can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost date. The seeds should be planted 1/4 inch deep in well-draining soil that has been amended with compost. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate.
Propagation by Division
Trifolium amplectens can also be propagated through division. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing the root ball into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the root and several healthy stems. Replant the divided sections immediately into well-draining soil that has been amended with compost. Water the plants regularly until they become established.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another way to propagate Trifolium amplectens. This method involves taking stem cuttings from an established plant and rooting them in moist soil or water. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems that are free of disease and pests. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and should be planted in a rooting hormone before being inserted into the soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until the cuttings have rooted and new growth appears.
Disease Management
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray, commonly known as Wyoming clover, is susceptible to a variety of diseases. The most common diseases affecting this species are:
- Clover scorch: This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas trifolii. It causes wilting, yellowing, and necrosis of the leaves. The disease can be managed by avoiding overhead irrigation, removing infected plant debris and selecting resistant cultivars.
- Rhizoctonia root rot: This fungal disease affects the roots of the plant causing root rot, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. It can be managed by planting resistant cultivars, avoiding planting in poorly drained soils and practicing crop rotation.
- Sclerotinia stem rot: This fungal disease affects the stems of the plant causing wilt, yellowing and death of the plant. It can be managed by avoiding overhead irrigation, selecting resistant cultivars and removing the infected plant debris.
Pest Management
Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray is also susceptible to pests that can cause damage to the plant. The most common pests affecting this species are:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap of the plant causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap, neem oil or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Clover mites: These tiny arachnids feed on the sap of the plant causing stippling and distortion of leaves. They can be managed by keeping the plant dry, using insecticidal soap and removing nearby weeds and grasses that can serve as alternate hosts.
- Clover root curculio: This weevil feeds on the roots of the plant causing stunted growth, yellowing and wilting of the leaves. It can be managed by using insecticides or by trapping the weevils with a sticky band around the stem.
It is important to monitor the plants regularly for signs of diseases and pests and take prompt action to manage them. Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining healthy and productive stands of Trifolium amplectens Torr. & Gray.
