Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) is a hardy perennial legume known for its fragrant yellow flowers and nitrogen-fixing ability. This versatile plant thrives in a variety of soil types and is widely used in meadows, pastures, cover cropping, and pollinator gardens.
With tall, fragrant flower spikes, Yellow Sweet Clover attracts bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it a key addition to pollinator-friendly landscapes. Its deep roots help improve soil structure and fertility, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardening and agricultural applications. Non-GMO seeds ensure a reliable and eco-friendly planting.
Features
- Fragrant yellow flower spikes attract pollinators
- Nitrogen-fixing perennial legume improves soil fertility
- Non-GMO seeds suitable for wildflower gardens, pastures, and cover crops
- Tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including poor soils
- Supports sustainable agriculture and pollinator-friendly landscapes
Specifications
- Seed Type: Yellow Sweet Clover flower seeds
- Botanical Name: Melilotus officinalis
- Common Names: Yellow Sweet Clover, Honey Clover
- Plant Type: Perennial legume
- Plant Height: 2 – 5 feet
- Zones: USDA Zones 3 – 9
- Light Requirement: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-draining to moderately fertile soil; tolerates poor soils
- Germination Time: 7 – 14 days
- Days to Maturity: 60 – 90 days for flowering
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Season: Spring or early fall sowing
- Planting Depth: 1/4 inch
- Spacing: Broadcast or 6 – 12 inches apart
- Optimal Temperature: 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C)
- Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Companion Plants: Ryegrass, Timothy, Clover mixtures, Wildflowers
- Bloom Time: Late spring to summer
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Uses: Pollinator gardens, cover crops, forage, soil improvement, ornamental planting
- Storage: Store seeds in a cool, dry location
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Scarify seeds or soak in warm water overnight to improve germination.
- Sowing: Broadcast or sow in rows; press seeds lightly into soil.
- Location: Plant in full sun for optimal growth and flower production.
- Watering: Keep soil moist until seedlings are established; reduce once mature.
- Maintenance: Low-maintenance; cut flowers to encourage regrowth or for forage use.
- Pollinator Support: Fragrant yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.