Origin and Common Names
Trifolium procumbens L. 1755, non 1753, commonly known as the Running Buffalo Clover or Hop Clover, is a species of clover that is native to North America. It is a member of the legume family, Fabaceae, and can be found across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.Uses
The Running Buffalo Clover has great ecological importance as it is considered an indicator species for tallgrass prairie habitats. It is often used in prairie restoration projects to improve the quality of the soil and provide food sources for pollinators and wildlife. Aside from its ecological value, the Running Buffalo Clover has also been used as a medicinal plant by various Native American tribes. It was traditionally made into a tea to alleviate coughs, colds, and stomach pains.General Appearance
The Running Buffalo Clover is a low-growing, spreading plant that typically reaches a height of 4-8 inches with a width of up to 12 inches. Its leaves are made up of three leaflets that are about 1/4 – 1/2 inches long, and they are typically oval to elliptical in shape. The flower heads are small and cylindrical, growing to about 1/2 inch in length, and are yellowish-white in color. The plant blooms from June to September, and the flowers are pollinated by bees and other insects. The Running Buffalo Clover is an important plant for maintaining healthy ecosystems and is a beautiful addition to any prairie or garden setting.Growth Conditions for Trifolium procumbens L. 1755, non 1753
Trifolium procumbens L. 1755, non 1753, commonly known as Hop Clover, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is an annual or biennial plant that typically grows up to 4-20 inches tall.
Light Requirements
Trifolium procumbens prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate partial shade, but exposure to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day is necessary for photosynthesis and thriving.
Soil Requirements
Trifolium procumbens prefers well-draining soils that are moderately fertile and slightly acidic (pH 5.5-6.2). Soil should be loamy or sandy with good drainage to avoid water stagnation, as it tends to be sensitive to root rot. Adding organic matter such as compost before planting can improve soil fertility and overall health.
Temperature Requirements
Trifolium procumbens grows well in moderate temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Higher temperatures can cause the plant to wilt and droop, while lower temperatures can delay its growth.
Water Requirements
Trifolium procumbens requires moderate watering, with an average of one inch per week. Overwatering can lead to root rot and the development of fungal diseases, while inadequate watering can cause the plant to dry out and wither.
Fertilizer
Trifolium procumbens does not require heavy fertilization because it is capable of fixing nitrogen from the air. However, adding a balanced fertilizer in small quantities can help promote growth and boost flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Trifolium procumbens L. 1755 requires a well-drained soil that is moist and fertile. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant can be grown from seed or by propagating through root division or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in the early spring or fall and should be sown thinly in rows. The seedlings should be thinned out to avoid competition for resources.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during prolonged dry spells. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. However, avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot and other water-related issues. Ideally, the plant should be watered early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce water loss due to evaporation.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary to maintain the health and vigor of Trifolium procumbens L. 1755. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium should be applied during the growing season. Fertilizers rich in phosphorous are especially beneficial as they promote root development. The frequency of the application depends on the fertility of the soil, but it is generally recommended to fertilize every six to eight weeks. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Trifolium procumbens L. 1755, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and overall health. Dead or damaged branches or leaves should be removed as soon as possible. The plant can also be trimmed back in the early spring or late fall to promote new growth and prevent overcrowding. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Trifolium procumbens L. 1755
Trifolium procumbens, commonly known as the creeping clover or running buffalo clover, is a low-growing, perennial legume that can spread up to 60 cm.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Trifolium procumbens is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from healthy plants during midsummer when they are mature and dry. After collecting, the seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified by scratching or cutting the coat. This will improve the seed's germination rate. The seeds can be sown directly into a well-prepared seedbed or in pots. The soil should be free from weeds and well-drained.
Once sown, the seeds require consistent moisture and warmth to germinate. Germination usually takes 7-10 days. After germination, the seedlings should be allowed to grow to a height of 5-8 cm before transplanting them into the main field.
Vegatative Propagation
Trifolium procumbens can be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be collected in early summer from healthy plants. They should be selected from the middle part of the stem, which is approximately 5-8 cm long and has at least two nodes.
After collecting, the cuttings should be trimmed at the base and treated with a rooting hormone to encourage rooting. The cuttings should be planted in a well-prepared bed, ensuring that the planting depth is up to the first node.
The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept moist until they establish roots. This usually takes 3-4 weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted in the field or pots and grown like seed-sown plants.
Disease Management
Trifolium procumbens L. is susceptible to various diseases, such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. The best way to manage these diseases is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be done by ensuring that the plants are not overcrowded and that there is adequate air circulation. In addition, it is essential to water the plants properly, avoiding overwatering or underwatering. If diseases do occur, it is advisable to remove the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides may also be used, but they should be used in moderation and in accordance with the instructions on the label.
Pest Management
Trifolium procumbens L. is susceptible to several pests such as aphids and caterpillars. These pests can cause damage to the plant, reducing its overall yield. The best way to manage pests is to monitor the plants regularly and identify the pests early on. This can be done by inspecting the plants regularly and using insect traps. Once pests are identified, they can be controlled through various means. For example, aphids can be controlled using insecticidal soap, while caterpillars can be controlled using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or neem oil.
