Cherler's Clover
trifolium cherleri
Also known as: ["Cherler's Trefoil","Small Hop Clover"]
Overview
A small annual clover species native to Europe and parts of Asia, characterized by its trifoliate leaves and small yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Trifolium |
| Botanical Name: | Trifolium cherleri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; after flowering or when deadheading is required.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; selective removal of spent flowers or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); partial shade in hot climates to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during peak afternoon hours in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers not to exceed 80°F (27°C).
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; use shade cloth in summer; monitor nighttime temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or stem cuttings; seeds are the most common method for Trifolium cherleri.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium, sow seeds or take cuttings, maintain moisture, provide warmth, transplant once established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F/18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting spray bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; use bottom heat for faster germination; thin seedlings as needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip off dead flowers with clean cuts just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, scissors, or fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, remove dead/damaged parts, make clean cuts, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current container.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and place in a shaded area for recovery.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Select new pot, prepare fresh soil, inspect roots, trim if needed, repot carefully, water lightly, acclimate slowly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to frost damage in severe cases.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move potted plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide shade during peak heat; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTrifolium cherleri is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic substances that would pose a risk to feline health upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTrifolium cherleri is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTrifolium cherleri is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is a species of clover and does not produce known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Trifolium cherleri edible?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic and can be consumed, though it is not commonly used as a food source.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and other pollinators due to its small yellow flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering, especially in well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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