How Do You Get Rid of Clover in Lawn

Clover is a persistent broadleaf weed that will quickly disrupt the uniform appearance of a healthy lawn. While some homeowners may not mind a patch or two, those striving for a dense, green lawn find clover to be an unwelcome intruder. Fortunately, with the right strategies, you can control clover effectively and prevent it from returning year after year.

Why Clover Appears in Lawns

Clover often establishes itself in lawns with nutrient-deficient soil, particularly when nitrogen levels are low. Unlike grass, clover has the unique ability to fix nitrogen from the air, which allows it to thrive in conditions where turfgrass struggles.

If clover is spreading in your yard, it may be a sign that your lawn is under-fertilized or that the soil pH is off balance. Additionally, compacted soil, poor drainage, and inconsistent mowing habits can create favorable conditions for clover to take hold. Learn how to loosen compacted soil.

Understanding why clover appears is the first step in controlling it. Rather than just eliminating the visible weeds, addressing the underlying issues in your lawn will help prevent new growth.

Follow a Proper Fertilization Schedule

One of the most effective long-term strategies for controlling clover is ensuring your grass receives the nutrients it needs to outcompete weeds. Clover tends to thrive in lawns that are lacking nitrogen, so applying a balanced fertilizer regularly can give your turfgrass the edge it needs.

Following a proven weed and feed schedule strengthens your lawn and reduces the likelihood of clover invasion. Fertilizing in the spring and fall is especially effective, as these are prime growth periods for most cool- and warm-season grasses. Check out our Weed and Feed Schedule to know when to apply lawn fertilizer.

Maintain Proper Mowing Height

Mowing your grass too short stresses turf and creates an open environment for clover and other weeds to spread. Set your mower blades to around 3 inches for most grass types.

Taller grass shades the soil, limiting sunlight for weed seeds and promoting stronger root development. Additionally, avoid mowing more than one-third of the grass blade at a time, as cutting too much can shock your lawn and weaken its natural defenses.

Manual Removal for Small Areas

For lawns with just a few clover patches, hand-pulling is an effective solution. Be sure to remove the entire root system, as clover will easily regrow from leftover roots.

This method works best when the soil is moist, making it easier to extract the roots completely. For larger areas, consider using a garden tool like a weeding fork to remove deeper roots without disturbing surrounding grass.

Use of Selective Herbicides

For widespread clover infestations, a selective broadleaf herbicide is necessary. These products target clover and other broadleaf weeds while leaving turfgrass unharmed.

Apply herbicides during active clover growth for the best results, and always follow label instructions carefully. For environmentally conscious homeowners, there are also organic options available that reduce chemical use while still controlling weeds. Find out how to achieve a lush, lively, organic lawn.

Promote Lawn Health to Prevent Clover

Clover control is not just about removal—it’s about creating conditions that favor turfgrass. A healthy lawn naturally resists weeds. Regular watering, balanced fertilization, proper mowing practices, and aeration to reduce soil compaction will make your lawn thick, vibrant, and less hospitable to clover.

Over time, these preventive measures reduce the need for chemical treatments and help you maintain a beautiful, uniform lawn.

Clover Control Methods

Final Thoughts

Controlling clover in your lawn doesn’t have to feel like an endless battle. By understanding why it appears, using a combination of proper fertilization, mowing practices, and targeted treatments, and maintaining overall lawn health, you can keep clover in check and enjoy a lush, uniform yard. Remember, prevention is just as important as removal—nurturing strong, healthy grass is the best way to naturally resist weeds. With consistent care and the right strategies, your lawn can stay green, thick, and clover-free all year long.

👉 Want professional help keeping clover and other weeds under control? Explore our lawn fertilization services to give your grass the nutrients it needs for long-term health and a lush, green appearance.