How to get rid of clover in lawn without killing grass: 9 safe techniques

Although clover offers several environmental benefits, including attracting beneficial pollinators like bees and naturally fixing nitrogen in the soil, most homeowners pursuing that coveted carpet-like lawn appearance view it as an unwelcome intruder.

Clover competes with grass for space, nutrients, and water, often creating a patchy, inconsistent look that disrupts the clean aesthetic many property owners desire.

How to get rid of clover in lawn? This comprehensive guide will walk you through 9 methods to eliminate clover from your lawn effectively, address the underlying conditions that allow it to thrive, and implement preventive strategies to keep it from returning.

Whether you’re dealing with small scattered patches or widespread coverage, you’ll find actionable solutions tailored to your specific situation and lawn care philosophy.

Is clover a weed?

Clover is technically a broadleaf perennial, and whether it’s considered a weed depends on your lawn goals.

For traditional lawn care enthusiasts seeking a uniform, green carpet of grass, clover is classified as a weed because it breaks the look and competes with turfgrass for space, nutrients, and water.

However, for others, clover is valued for its benefits:

• Fixes nitrogen naturally, reducing fertilizer needs
• Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
• Stays green during droughts and poor soil conditions
• Requires less mowing and watering

Bottom line: Clover is only a weed if it’s unwanted in your lawn. If you’re aiming for a traditional turfgrass aesthetic, it’s something you’ll want to control or eliminate.

What causes clovers to spread in lawns?

Understanding why clover establishes itself in your lawn is crucial for both elimination and prevention. Several underlying conditions create the perfect environment for clover to outcompete your grass:

• Poor soil fertility, particularly nitrogen deficiency, is the primary culprit. While grass requires regular nitrogen inputs to maintain healthy growth and color, clover actually thrives in nitrogen-poor conditions because it can fix its own nitrogen from the atmosphere through specialized root bacteria. This gives clover a significant competitive advantage in undernourished lawns.
• Low mowing height weakens grass and creates opportunities for clover establishment. When you consistently cut grass too short (scalping), you stress the turf and reduce its ability to photosynthesize effectively. This creates thin, weak areas where clover seeds can germinate and establish without competition.
• Compacted soil prevents grass roots from accessing water, nutrients, and oxygen while clover’s more aggressive root system can still penetrate dense soil layers. Areas with heavy foot traffic, such as pathways or play areas, often show the first signs of clover invasion.
• Overwatering or poor drainage creates conditions that favor clover over most grass types. While clover tolerates wet conditions well, many turfgrasses struggle with waterlogged roots, leading to thin spots that clover quickly colonizes.
• Thin grass coverage from any cause – whether disease, insect damage, drought stress, or poor establishment – provides open soil where clover seeds can germinate without competition from established turf.

How to get rid of clover in lawn: 9 proven methods

Hand pulling or digging small patches

For early-stage infestations or isolated patches, manual removal remains one of the most effective and environmentally friendly approaches. This method works best when clover coverage is minimal and you can address individual plants or small clusters.

Timing is critical for successful hand removal. Target clover when the soil is moist but not waterlogged – ideally 24-48 hours after rain or deep watering.

Moist soil allows you to extract the entire root system more easily, preventing regrowth from root fragments left behind.

Mow higher than usual

Adjusting your mowing height is one of the simplest yet most effective strategies for suppressing clover while strengthening your existing grass. Taller grass creates shade that discourages clover germination and growth while promoting deeper root development in your turf.

Optimal mowing heights vary by grass type but generally range from 2.5 to 4 inches for most cool-season grasses like fescue, bluegrass, and perennial ryegrass. Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda and Zoysia perform best when maintained at 1.5 to 3 inches.

Set your mower deck to the higher end of the recommended range for your grass type.

Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer

Since clover thrives in nitrogen-deficient soils while grass requires adequate nitrogen for healthy growth, strategic fertilization can tip the competitive balance strongly in favor of your turf.

This approach works by strengthening grass while eliminating clover’s primary competitive advantage. Apply the first fertilizer application in early spring when soil temperatures reach 55-60°F and grass begins actively growing.

Organic nitrogen sources

Organic nitrogen sources provide slow-release nutrition that promotes steady grass growth without creating the surge-and-crash cycles associated with some synthetic fertilizers.

Blood meal offers quick-release nitrogen (12-0-0) that’s immediately available to grass roots. Apply 2-3 pounds per 1,000 square feet in early spring when grass begins active growth. Composted manure provides moderate nitrogen (typically 1-2%) along with soil-improving organic matter. Apply a half-inch layer annually, working it lightly into the soil surface.

Synthetic fertilizers

Synthetic fertilizers deliver precise nutrient ratios and can provide faster results when dealing with severe nitrogen deficiency.

Look for fertilizers with 3:1:2 or 4:1:2 nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratios, such as 24-8-16 or 32-8-16 formulations.

Apply according to package directions, typically 1-2 pounds of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet annually, split into 2-3 applications during the growing season.

Use vinegar or DIY natural remedies

Vinegar-based treatments offer a natural, non-synthetic approach to spot-treating clover, though they require careful application and realistic expectations about effectiveness and duration.

• White vinegar with 10-20% acetic acid provides the most effective results for clover control. Standard household vinegar (5% acetic acid) may damage clover temporarily but rarely provides lasting control.
• Application technique matters significantly for vinegar treatments. Apply during sunny, calm conditions when temperatures exceed 70°F for maximum effectiveness. Spray directly onto clover leaves until thoroughly wetted, taking care to avoid contact with desirable grass as much as possible.
• Expect multiple applications for meaningful control. Vinegar only affects the portions of the plant it contacts directly and doesn’t typically kill root systems. Plan on reapplying every 7 – 10 days for 3 – 4 weeks to achieve reasonable control. Even then, established clover plants may recover from their root systems, requiring ongoing monitoring and retreatment.

Apply a selective herbicide

Post-emergent selective herbicides containing active ingredients like dicamba, 2,4-D, or triclopyr effectively control established clover without harming most turfgrasses.

Read and follow label directions precisely for best results and lawn safety. Different grass types have varying tolerances to herbicide active ingredients.

Cool-season grasses like fescue and bluegrass generally tolerate most selective herbicides well, while some warm-season grasses may be more sensitive. Never exceed recommended application rates or frequency.

Apply when clover is actively growing and temperatures are between 60-80°F for best results. 

Avoid applications during drought stress, extreme heat, or when rain is forecast within 6 – 8 hours. Early spring and fall typically provide ideal conditions for herbicide applications.

Use a broadleaf herbicide

For extensive clover infestations covering large lawn areas, broadleaf herbicides provide efficient, comprehensive control that addresses multiple weed types simultaneously while preserving turfgrass.

Spring and early fall applications typically provide the best results for clover control. Apply in late spring (April-May) when clover is emerging and actively growing, or in early fall (September-October) when plants are storing energy in their root systems.

Avoid summer applications during hot, dry periods when both weeds and grass are stressed.

Professional-grade products like Trimec or Conquer provide higher concentrations and more consistent results than many consumer formulations. However, homeowner products from Scotts, Bayer, and Ortho offer adequate performance for typical residential applications when used according to label directions.

Maintain a healthy lawn

Creating and maintaining dense, vigorous turf represents the most sustainable long-term approach to clover control, as healthy grass naturally outcompetes weeds for space, light, and nutrients.

• Overseeding annually fills in thin areas where clover typically establishes first. Choose grass varieties appropriate for your climate, soil conditions, and intended use.
• Core aeration relieves soil compaction that favors clover over grass. Fall aeration works best for cool-season grasses, while late spring timing suits warm-season varieties. Follow aeration with overseeding and fertilization for maximum benefit.
• Proper watering practices promote deep grass root development while discouraging shallow-rooted weeds. Early morning watering reduces disease pressure and evaporation losses while ensuring adequate soil moisture for grass growth.

Improve soil quality

Addressing underlying soil conditions that favor clover over grass provides lasting control while improving overall lawn health and appearance.

• Soil testing reveals specific deficiencies that may be encouraging clover establishment. Contact your local extension office for soil testing services, or use reliable home test kits to determine pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium levels, and organic matter content.
• pH adjustment improves nutrient availability for grass while creating less favorable conditions for clover. Most turfgrasses prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0), while clover tolerates a wider pH range including more alkaline conditions.
• Apply lime to raise pH in acidic soils or sulfur to lower pH in alkaline soils, following soil test recommendations for application rates.
• Organic matter incorporation improves soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability while promoting beneficial microbial activity.
• Top-dress lawns annually with a quarter-inch layer of high-quality compost, working it lightly into the soil surface with a rake. This practice gradually improves soil quality while providing slow-release nutrients for grass growth.

Consider professional lawn treatment services

Professional services offer expertise, commercial-grade products, and integrated treatment programs for severe infestations. They provide proper diagnosis of underlying issues and access to restricted-use herbicides. Annual programs typically cost $300-1,500 depending on lawn size and treatment complexity. Consider when DIY methods prove insufficient.

Should you get rid of clovers?

The decision to eliminate clover from your lawn ultimately depends on your personal preferences, lawn care goals, and environmental values. Understanding both sides of this debate helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your priorities.

Pros of keeping clover:

• Naturally fixes nitrogen, reducing fertilizer needs
• Attracts beneficial pollinators like bees and butterflies
• Stays green during drought when grass turns brown
• Requires less mowing and watering than traditional turf

Drawbacks for traditional lawn aesthetics make clover undesirable for homeowners pursuing uniform, manicured landscapes.

However, these benefits come at the cost of traditional lawn aesthetics.

• Creates patchy, inconsistent appearance with distinctive three-leaf pattern
• White flowers disrupt smooth carpet look most homeowners prefer
• Different growth habits clash with surrounding grass
• Flowers attract bees, which may concern families with allergies

Bottom line: Clover removal makes sense if you prioritize traditional lawn aesthetics over environmental benefits.

Remove clover when:

• You want a formal, manicured landscape appearance
• Family members have severe bee allergies
• Selling your property and need maximum curb appeal
• HOA or neighborhood standards require uniform turf

How to prevent clover from returning

Once you’ve eliminated clover, implementing consistent preventive measures ensures it won’t return and reduces the need for future treatments.

• Fertilize regularly to maintain nitrogen levels that favor grass over clover. Apply fertilizer based on your grass type. Use soil test results to guide specific nutrient needs, but keep nitrogen adequate throughout the growing season.
• Maintain proper mowing height year-round by setting your mower to the highest recommended setting for your grass type. Never cut shorter than 2 inches and always follow the one-third rule for grass removal. Keep mower blades sharp for clean cuts that heal quickly and resist disease.
• Overseed annually to fill thin areas before weeds establish. Focus on high-traffic zones and immediately address any lawn damage from disease, insects, or weather. Choose improved grass varieties with better environmental tolerance when available.
• Aerate compacted soil yearly, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or clay soil conditions. Core aerate in fall for cool-season grasses and late spring for warm-season varieties. Follow aeration with overseeding and fertilization for maximum grass development.
• Monitor for early signs of clover reestablishment by walking your lawn monthly during the growing season.Hand-pull individual clover plants immediately upon discovery and address any underlying conditions that allow them to return.

Conclusion

Clover control is entirely achievable through the nine methods outlined in this guide, from simple hand-pulling to professional treatments. The key to lasting success lies in addressing underlying soil conditions while maintaining healthy, competitive turf that naturally resists weed invasion.

Choose methods that fit your situation, budget, and preferences regarding natural versus chemical approaches. With patience and consistent effort, you can achieve the uniform, clover-free lawn you want while maintaining long-term soil and grass health.

Take action today by testing your soil and implementing a proper fertilization schedule – these foundational steps will give your grass the competitive edge it needs to naturally suppress clover and other weeds.

If you want to learn more useful guides for your garden, please check out our landscape care library for additional expert gardening advice and solutions.

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