There is not a simple answer to the question of when and how much to mow established clover stands. If the stand is less than one year old and is mixed with small grains (oats, wheat, or rye) then wait until after the grains mature and go to seed. If weeds are low or non-existent, a single mowing in August will suffice. Otherwise, mow as necessary to reduce weed competition, possibly June and August. Do not mow in droughts or low moisture conditions. Attempt to mow when adequate rainfall is available. Do not mow clover down to two inches or less. Mow 8-12 inch clover down to 4 or 5 inches.

What variety of clover do you have? Ladino clovers which are taller and have larger leaves than other white clovers, do not need frequent mowing unless weeds are a problem. The June and August mowings (in the absence of drought) will suffice for ladino. Intermediate white clovers (not as tall with smaller leaves) such as Durana or Patriot will benefit from frequent spring mowing during high growth conditions to allow light to penetrate to the base of white clover plants, which encourages productivity by increasing stolon (runners) production and “daughter” plants. This is the main method of white clover growth and reproduction. When spring intermediate white clover growth reaches 8-12 inches, mow down to 4 or 5 inches. In summer, under dryer conditions, allow it to bloom (it will do so profusely all summer long) then mow to rejuvenate the stand in late August.

As you can see, when to mow clover is a judgement call based mainly on how much weed competition is involved. An agronomist friend of mine maintained a productive stand of Durana and Patriot clover for 3 years without lime, fertilizer or mowing! I don’t recommend this, but it is a testament to the persistent nature of some of the new intermediate clovers.