Red Clover Royal Guardians

Companion plant red clover: A living mulch that improves soil quality

RED CLOVER

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) like its cousin white clover is an unbeatable companion plant. It fixes atmospheric nitrogen in root nodules and acts as a living mulch. The health benefits of red clover are many. It is one of nature's richest sources of isoflavinoids which are water-soluble compounds, that behave like oestrogen. This makes it useful in treating the symptoms of menopause and helps in preventing osteoporosis. Red clover is a beneficial aid when trying to quit smoking and is a rich source of minerals.

The fixed nitrogen is released into the neighbouring soil as the plant decays. Nearby plants, including marijuana boom, becoming richly verdant with this slow release organic nutrient boost. Trimming red clover back to delay flowering provides a ready supply of mineral-rich green manure. Robust and tolerant of many weather conditions, red clover keeps the soil friable, so water penetrates easier and is retained more readily. Deep pink pom pom flowers on their own flower spike attract nectar-loving species to your patch for sure, but the power of red clover is that of a fertilizer.