History Behind Clovers

Clovers have long been sacredly regarded in Ireland because of their three leaves (it’s said that St. Patrick used the three leaves of the clover to teach the holy trinity).

Shamrocks, their four-leaved brothers, are said to symbolize love, faith, hope, and luck and actually occur because of a genetic mutation—which makes them so rare to find.

Health Benefits of Clovers

But did you know you can also grow clovers indoors? And that you can grow clover seed sprouts too? And eat them?

Apparently cloves were eaten by the Irish in times of famine.

They’re supposed to be very healthy for you.

According to Livestrong, clovers provide hypertension relief due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Clovers also contain minerals like calcium, iron, phosphorus, zinc, selenium, and magnesium and are a great source of fiber, calcium, iron, folate, and Vitamins A, B, C, and K.

If that’s not enough, they’re also really low in calories and due to its fiber, helps you feel fuller for longer.

Clover also contains antioxidants that can help prevent degenerative diseases and cell mutation.

They’re great for adding an extra crunch to your salads or sandwiches!

Sprouting Clover Seeds

There are various jars, trays, and kits you can sprout clover seeds in. You can find some here.

To start the sprouting process, you’ll need to soak the seeds for 8-12 hours. You’ll then need to rinse and drain the seeds two-three times a day.

It typically takes the seeds five-six days to be ready for harvest.

Growing Potted Shamrock Indoors

True Irish Shamrock (Trifolium dubium) is difficult to find at nurseries and hard to grow indoors. For indoor growing, the potted shamrock plant, or Oxalis regnellii is a great choice!

The potted shamrock plant has large, beautiful leaves that close at night and grows delicate flowers in the fall, winter, and spring. I think we usually think of clovers having green leaves, but potted shamrock leaves can also be purple.

They’re a little unusual because they actually become dormant in summer. You’ll be able to tell when they’re dormant because their leaves will start dying back and they’ll need to be placed in darkness.

They’ll need full sun and water once they’ve finished their period of dormancy. You’ll be able to tell when they’ve come back to life when you see shoots starting to grow. You’ll want to water about two-three times a month, keeping the soil lightly moist.

How About You?

Have you tried sprouting clover seeds or growing potted shamrock before? How did it go? Were they easy to maintain? Do you have a cool story about how a clover brought you good luck?

Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page!