SWEET CLOVER
Melilotus
Plant Characteristics
Height:
Up to 5’
Stem:
Short
Leaves:
Toothed, commonly smooth
Flower:
20-65 flowers on stalks, white or yellow
Bloom Time:
May to JuneWhite and Yellow sweet clover are very similar plants thriving after fires. This drought tolerant plant can invade roadsides and disturbed areas. It degrades native grasslands by overtopping and shading native sun-loving plants thereby reducing diversity.
Hand Pull
Hand pull when the ground is moist and in late fall.
Spot Spray
Spot spray as needed.
Cut
Cut first and second year stems near the ground.
Cultural Plant Alternatives:
Canada Milk Vetch
This sun loving plant is often found along river banks and lakeshores. It is useful for erosion control, wetland restoration, and food for wildlife. This plant is adaptable to many locations as long as there is well drained soil.
Prairie Turnip
Often a rare to find plant, it has deep cultural roots in the Dakota community. The roots were an important part of the vegetable diet, being eaten fresh or cooked after being peeled. They can also be dried and hung like garlic for later use.
