Origin
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene, commonly known as false hop clover, is native to western North America, particularly in California, Oregon, and Washington. It can also be found in Canada.
Common Names
False hop clover is also known by other common names such as Pacific hop clover, chamisso's clover, small-headed clover, and dwarf clover.
Uses
Despite its name, false hop clover does not produce hops. However, it is still valuable for wildlife as it provides food for grazing animals such as deer, elk, and rabbits. Additionally, false hop clover can be used as a cover crop, nitrogen fixer, and as a source of forage for livestock.
General Appearance
False hop clover is typically a low-growing perennial herbaceous plant that reaches a height of only about 6-12 inches. Its leaves are three-parted, with each leaflet often egg-shaped to oval and less than half an inch long. Its flowers are white or pale pink and are arranged in dense clusters of multiple small heads at the end of its stems. False hop clover fruits are pods that are slightly hairy and oblong-shaped.
Light Requirements
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene typically thrives in full sun exposure. However, it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant grows well in areas with exposure to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can withstand cold weather conditions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -10 °F (-23.3°C). However, it is best suited for regions with relatively warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 68 °F (20 °C) and 77 °F (25°C).
Soil Requirements
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene prefers well-draining soil. The plant rarely thrives in clay soil since it cannot drain excess water promptly. A soil pH of 6.5 to 7.5 is optimal for good yields. Additionally, the plant benefits from the addition of organic matter to the soil, which improves soil fertility. It can grow in various soil types such as sandy loam, clay loam, and silt loam.
Cultivation methods
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene is a perennial plant that thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It is relatively easy to grow and can be propagated by seed or division. If you are growing it from seeds, ensure you stratify them for at least one month before planting. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0.
Watering needs
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene requires moderate watering. Do not let the soil dry completely, but do not overwater as this may cause root rot. The plant's watering needs may vary depending on the climate and soil type. Water it thoroughly once or twice per week, depending on rainfall and soil moisture levels. It is advisable to water early in the day to regulate moisture levels and reduce fungal growth.
Fertilization
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene is a low-maintenance plant and does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season to promote plant growth and blooming. Avoid using nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they tend to promote leafy growth rather than flowering. You can also incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil during planting to increase soil fertility and nutrient levels.
Pruning
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene does not require regular pruning. However, if you want to keep the plant tidy and avoid spreading, you can trim it back in early spring before new growth appears. You can also deadhead the flowers once they start to fade to encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Besides, remove any damaged or diseased stems and leaves as soon as you notice them to prevent the spread of pathogens.
Propagation of Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene, commonly known as False White Clover, is a slow-growing herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to North America and prefers to grow in dry sandy soils.
Propagation Methods
False White Clover can be propagated by various methods, including:
1. Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate False White Clover is through seed propagation. The seeds must be planted in a well-drained soil mixture during the fall or early spring. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1/8 inch and should be spaced around 4 inches apart. The soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate. It is essential to provide the plant with sufficient light and warmth to encourage growth.
2. Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of False White Clover can be accomplished through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from a mature plant during the early spring or mid-summer. The cutting should be around 3 to 4 inches long and must have at least two nodes. The cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. The soil must be kept moist, and the cutting must be kept in a warm, bright location until roots develop.
3. Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method to propagate False White Clover. It involves dividing the root ball of the parent plant into smaller sections. Each section must have at least one shoot and a few healthy roots. The divided sections should be planted in a well-drained potting mix and kept moist until they establish themselves.
False White Clover is a hardy plant that can tolerate adverse conditions, making it an excellent choice for beginners. Following the correct propagation methods can help to ensure that the plant thrives and produces beautiful white flowers.
Disease Management
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause dark, irregularly shaped lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage, consider planting resistant varieties, regular pruning, removal of affected parts and treatment with a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust causes orange, powdery spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage, avoid overhead watering, remove the affected parts of the plant, and consider applying a copper-based fungicide.
- Pythium root rot: This soilborne fungal disease can affect Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene at any stage. To manage, ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and ensure that the plant has well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Trifolium bifidum Gray var. decipiens Greene can also be affected by several pests, including:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage, use insecticidal soap, neem oil or horticultural oil treatments, or introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or lacewings.
- Clover root curculio: This pest is a beetle whose larvae feed on the roots of the plant, causing stunted growth and ultimately killing the plant. To manage, consider planting resistant varieties, crop rotation, or using insecticides.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage, use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil or neem oil treatments, or introduce predatory mites like Phytoseiulus persimilis.
