Microclover Lawns in West Sussex: Pros, Cons & How to Start (Chichester, Arundel & Emsworth)

What is microclover?

Microclover is a small-leafed white clover blended into grass seed. It fixes atmospheric nitrogen, naturally feeding surrounding grass for deeper colour with fewer fertiliser applications.

Benefits for West Sussex gardens

• Greener colour most of the year (even in lean soils).
• Naturally suppresses weeds by filling gaps.
• Lower fertiliser use and fewer feeds.
• Tolerates light shade and foot traffic (great for family lawns).
• Coastal resilience for Chichester/Emsworth breezes.

Any downsides?

• Flowers attract bees (a plus for many!), so mow regularly if you want fewer blooms.
• Won’t suit bowling-green stripes purists—microclover creates a subtly mottled, deep green.
• Needs sensible mowing height (around 4–5 cm).

How to establish a microclover lawn

1. Timing: Early autumn (Sept–early Oct) or mid-spring.
2. Prep: Scarify to remove thatch; hollow-tine aerate if compacted.
3. Seed choice: Use a quality rye/fescue mix with microclover (0.5–2% by weight).
4. Sowing rate: 20–30 g/m²; rake in lightly.
5. Topdress: 3–5 mm lawn sand/loam for seed-to-soil contact.
6. Water: Little and often until germination, then reduce frequency but water more deeply.

Ongoing care

• Mow at 4–5 cm.
• Fertilise less often (spring starter + light summer top-up if needed).
• Overseed annually to maintain density.

Local help: We create microclover-grass blends tailored to Chichester, Arundel and Emsworth soils. Book a free lawn assessment.