The Best Clover for Honey Bees

Honey bees are one of the most important pollinators in the world. They play a vital role in the ecosystem by helping plants reproduce and sustaining our food supply. As beekeepers, we need to ensure that our honey bees have access to the best clover varieties so they can continue to thrive. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of clovers that are beneficial to honey bees and how to choose the best clover for your apiary.

Why is Clover Important for Honey Bees?

Clover is an important source of nectar and pollen for honey bees. It provides a high-quality food source that helps bees survive during times when there may be a shortage of other flowering plants. Bees also use clover as a building block for their wax combs and forage on its leaves to collect water.

Types of Clover

There are several types of clovers that are beneficial for honey bees. Here are some of the most popular:

White Clover

White clover (Trifolium repens) is one of the most common clovers found in North America. It's a low-growing perennial that produces white flowers from May to September. White clover is a good source of nectar and pollen for bees, and it's also used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility.

Red Clover

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is another popular clover species that bees love. It's a short-lived perennial that produces red or pink flowers from May to September. Red clover is known for its high protein content, making it an excellent source of nutrition for bees.

Ake Clover

Ake clover (Trifolium hybridum) is a hybrid of white and red clovers. It's a perennial that produces pink or white flowers from June to August. Ake clover is a good source of nectar and pollen for bees, and it's also used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility.

Choosing the Best Clover for Your Apiary

When choosing the best clover for your apiary, there are several factors to consider:

Climate

Different types of clovers grow better in different climates. For example, white clover grows well in cool, moist environments, while red clover prefers warmer, drier conditions. Make sure to choose a clover species that will thrive in your climate.

Soil Type

Clovers prefer well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or compacted, you may need to amend it before planting clover. You can also choose a clover species that is better suited to your soil type.

Flowering Period

It's important to choose a clover species that blooms during the time when your honey bees need it most. Bees need a consistent food source throughout the year, so it's a good idea to plant clovers that bloom at different times.

Best Practices for Planting Clover

Here are some tips for planting clover in your apiary:

Prepare the Soil

Before planting clover, make sure to prepare the soil properly. Remove any weeds or debris, and amend the soil if necessary.

Choose the Right Time

Clover should be planted in the spring or fall, depending on the species. Make sure to plant it at the right time to ensure optimal growth.

Plant in Clumps

Plant clover in clumps rather than in rows. This will help bees find the flowers more easily and make it easier for them to collect nectar and pollen.

Clover as a Cover Crop

Clover is not only beneficial for honey bees, but it's also a great cover crop. Cover crops are planted to improve soil health and fertility. Clover can help fix nitrogen in the soil, which can benefit other plants in your garden or farm.

Benefits of Using Clover as a Cover Crop

Clover has several benefits when used as a cover crop:

• Improves soil structure and tilth
• Increases water infiltration
• Suppresses weeds
• Reduces erosion
• Provides habitat for beneficial insects

How to Use Clover as a Cover Crop

To use clover as a cover crop, plant it in between rows of vegetables or fruit trees. You can also use it to cover bare areas of your garden or field. Make sure to mow or till the clover before it goes to seed to prevent it from becoming invasive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I plant clover in pots?

Yes, you can plant clover in pots. Make sure to choose a pot that is large enough for the clover to grow, and use well-draining soil.

Q: Will planting clover attract other pollinators besides honey bees?

Yes, clover is attractive to many different types of pollinators, including butterflies and bumblebees.

Q: Can I plant multiple types of clovers in my apiary?

Yes, planting multiple types of clovers can provide a consistent food source for honey bees throughout the year.

Q: How often should I plant clover in my apiary?

Clover can be planted every year, but it's important to rotate the crops to prevent soil depletion.

Q: Can I harvest clover for human consumption?

Yes, clover can be used as a food source for humans. It's commonly used in teas and salads.


Choosing the best clover for your apiary is an important decision that can have a significant impact on the health and well-being of your honey bees. By considering factors such as climate, soil type, and flowering period, you can choose a clover species that will provide a consistent food source for your bees. Planting clover as a cover crop can also benefit your garden or farm by improving soil health and fertility. With these tips, you can ensure that your honey bees have access to the best clover varieties and continue to thrive.