Why do clover leaves close up?

1. Name

This phenomenon is very normal. There is a rather technical term for it, namely nyctinastic movement. This term mainly comes from changes in light, because the leaves sense different light during the day and at night. During the day it photosynthesizes, so the leaves spread out as much as possible, which slightly increases light absorption, while at night it closes, so heat and water loss are not very serious.

2. Types

Generally, this phenomenon is not limited to this one plant. Some plants in the Fabaceae family, such as peanuts and silk tree flowers, also exhibit it. In addition, some plants in other families, such as wood sorrel, also show this phenomenon.

In fact, this phenomenon is still beneficial, because it can let us judge whether a plant is growing relatively robustly. For example, if this plant is very healthy, its leaves will begin to close toward evening, but if it is diseased or the environment it is in is not suitable for it, its nyctinasty will be much weaker.

3. Causes

The cause of this phenomenon is that the cells in its pulvinus undergo periodic turgor pressure, so it changes. During the day, it absorbs more water and swells, so the leaves also spread out, while at night the upper leaves lose some water and begin to close.

In short, this is a very normal phenomenon, and we do not need to worry about anything. Only when we find that this grass has not folded up in the evening do we need to start worrying. At that time, we can consider giving it a better environment, and if it is diseased, we can consider treating it.