To Mow or Not to Mow?

[K.K]

Hello Everyone,

I have a 1/2 acre plot with mixed clover, chicory, Austrian peas, beans, etc (Tecomate, No-Plow, and Imperial Clover all mixed).  I have heard that clover should be mowed periodically. My question is should I do this and cut the other plants as well?  Perhaps I shouldn't have mixed the plot?  The deer have been using it a little, but not hammering it yet. Please let me know your thoughts. I appreciate your input.

K.K

[montveil]

I would   mow only if the larger plants are shading out the lower clovers.
I would mow only low enough to let the understory plants receive light.
You will to save the perrenials in favor of the annuals.  The more biomass you leave the better the plot will reseed itself.
The clovers will do best in soil that is in the 6-7.5 ph.

[K.K]

Thanks. I may just lop off the tops of the native grass that is higher. The larger plants are doing well, clover is really lush. We've had lots of water and I used Gain and plenty of fertilizer. Can't wait til fall!