How do I remove clover?

Clover is a low-growing perennial weed that tends to thrive in nitrogen-deficient soil. It is also considered a legume and has the ability to convert nitrogen into the air and release it into the soil. Clover is classified as a broadleaf plant, which is usually distinguished by its deep taproots and flowers. 

Here are a few methods for removing clover:

Hand Pulling

Clovers found in their earliest stages can be removed by gently pulling them up by hand. Be sure to loosen the soil and check to make sure that no roots are left behind. Any roots left in the ground can cause the clover plant to grow back.

Weed Control

If you have a large amount of clover, it is best to use weed control. Prior to selecting any weed control, make sure it’s formulated to target clover, as most herbicides control either broadleaf or grassy weeds, not both. 

We recommend using an herbicide-lawn fertilizer combination product, such as Jonathan Green Weed & Feed Fertilizer, to help control the clover while also feeding the lawn. This product also provides a necessary boost of nitrogen, which is a nutrient that helps to promote a greener, thicker lawn that will help the grass outperform clover and other lawn weeds. 

Apply Jonathan Green Weed & Feed Fertilizer when clover first appears in your lawn during late spring or early fall, and when temperatures are below 85°F. Do not apply to a newly seeded lawn. Only apply to a damp lawn that hasn’t been mowed for at least 48 hours. This will ensure that it properly clings to the leaves of the clover and kills it down to the root. Do not water or walk on the lawn for 48 hours.

In order to prevent clover from returning:

Address Soil Issues

Thick, healthy lawns are able to crowd out weeds like clover by denying them access to oxygen and sunlight. Healthy lawns start with healthy soil. For example, lawns with improper soil pH and compaction are better growing conditions for clover than grass plants. Perform a screwdriver test to test for compaction by pushing the screwdriver into the ground to a depth of six inches. If it is difficult to push into the ground easily or all the way, your soil may be compacted. Adding a soil amendment, such as Love Your Soil®, can help to relieve compaction and improve the health of your soil and thus the health of your lawn. 

Adjust Mower Height

Adjusting your mower height can also help to prevent clover from returning. As clover is a low-growing weed, raising your mower height to about three to four inches will allow the grass to grow taller, making it more difficult for clover to access sunlight and grow. 

For additional information on weed control and prevention, head over to our Weed Control page!