How to Get Rid of Clover in Your Lawn: Complete Guide

Clover can be both beneficial and problematic in lawns. Learn effective methods to remove clover while maintaining a healthy lawn ecosystem.

1-2 hours
intermediate
spring

Tools You'll Need

  • Hand weeder or dandelion digger
  • Lawn mower
  • Sprayer (for herbicide application)
  • Work gloves
  • Safety glasses

Materials

  • Selective herbicide (optional)
  • Fertilizer
  • Water

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Identify the Clover

Determine if you have white clover (Trifolium repens) or other clover varieties. White clover has three-leaf clusters and white flowers.

Pro Tips

  • Clover often indicates low nitrogen in soil
  • Some people intentionally grow clover for its benefits
2

Choose Your Method

Decide between manual removal, herbicide treatment, or cultural control methods. Manual removal works for small areas, herbicides for larger infestations.

Pro Tips

  • Consider clover's benefits before removing
  • Manual removal is most environmentally friendly
3

Manual Removal

Use a hand weeder or dandelion digger to remove clover plants, ensuring you get the entire root system. This is most effective for small patches.

Pro Tips

  • Remove when soil is moist
  • Get the entire root to prevent regrowth
4

Herbicide Treatment

Apply a selective herbicide labeled for clover control. Follow label instructions carefully and apply when clover is actively growing.

Pro Tips

  • Choose herbicides safe for your grass type
  • Apply on calm days to avoid drift
5

Prevent Future Growth

Maintain a healthy, thick lawn through proper fertilization, mowing, and watering. A dense lawn will naturally suppress clover growth.

Pro Tips

  • Apply nitrogen fertilizer to promote grass growth
  • Mow at proper height for your grass type

Frequently Asked Questions

Is clover bad for my lawn?

Clover isn't necessarily bad - it can fix nitrogen and provide ground cover. However, many consider it a weed in traditional lawns.

What's the best time to remove clover?

Spring or early fall when clover is actively growing and before it sets seed.

Will clover come back after removal?

Yes, unless you address the underlying conditions (low nitrogen, thin grass) that allowed clover to thrive.

Can I use vinegar to kill clover?

Vinegar can kill clover but may also damage surrounding grass. Use with caution and consider more targeted methods.

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