 | | | Clover
| | | | | | Hi Cynthia:
I live in an apartment with a small backyard. Since I don't have a lawn mower, I planted clover instead of grass seed as I want some semblance of a lawn. My problem is that the clover has infiltrated my flowerbeds and is taking over. It's everywhere. I pull it, but it spreads again. Help!
Jonathan, Lamorinda
Hi Jonathan:
We should be so lucky as to have clover infiltrating our gardens. In the September 26, 2012 issue of Digging Deep, I actually wrote an entire column called "Under Cover" (https://www.lamorindaweekly.com/archive/issue0615/Digging-Deep-Under-Cover.html) which describes the best specimens to plant to nourish the soil as cover crops. Clover is one of the best soil amendments you can find, enriching your dirt with tons of nitrogen to help your garden grow strong. When clover spreads to the beds, pull it out or dig it up by hand, but don't throw it in the compost pile. Instead turn it into the soil as deeply as possible. Use a hoe, rototiller, or spade. Within 10 days to two weeks, the clover breaks down providing nutrients to your soil and surrounding plants. Repeat as necessary and be grateful for your green carpet that is also an environmentally correct feeding machine.
Happy Gardening!
Cynthia
(c)2012
Cynthia Brian
The Goddess Gardener
Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
www.GoddessGardener.com
I am available as a speaker, designer, and consultant.
Cynthia will answer one or more questions as space allows. Email your comments or questions to Cynthia@GoddessGardener.com
|
Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA