Clover may seem harmless — with its small white flowers and green leaves — but many homeowners find it frustrating when it spreads across their lawns. While some people appreciate clover for its ability to stay green in drought conditions, most prefer a uniform carpet of grass. The good news is, with the right approach, you can manage or eliminate clover and restore your lawn’s lush appearance.
Why Clover Grows in Lawns
Before removing clover, it helps to understand why it shows up in the first place. Clover tends to thrive in conditions where grass struggles, such as:
- Low nitrogen levels in soil: Clover can produce its own nitrogen, so it flourishes where grass is nutrient-deficient.
- Compacted soil: Poor aeration gives clover an advantage over grass.
- Mowing too short: Scalped grass leaves room for clover to spread.
- Thin turf: Bare patches or weak grass growth give clover space to grow.
By addressing these conditions, you make your lawn less inviting to clover.
Natural Ways to Get Rid of Clover
1. Fertilize Regularly
Because clover thrives in nitrogen-poor soil, applying a nitrogen-rich fertilizer strengthens grass and crowds out clover. A consistent fertilization schedule keeps your lawn healthier and more competitive.
2. Raise Your Mowing Height
Mowing your lawn too short weakens grass and allows clover to spread. Keep your mower set to 3–4 inches. Taller grass shades the soil, making it harder for clover to thrive.
3. Improve Soil Health
Aerating compacted soil and overseeding thin areas creates stronger, denser turf. When your lawn is thick and vigorous, it naturally chokes out clover.
4. Hand-Pull Clover
For small patches, pulling clover by hand is effective. Water the area first to loosen the soil, then gently pull out the clover, making sure to remove the roots.
Using Vinegar or DIY Solutions
Some homeowners use vinegar-based sprays as a natural clover killer. Vinegar dehydrates the plant, but it can also harm grass if applied carelessly. If you try this method, spray directly on clover patches and avoid overspray.
Another method is mixing vinegar with dish soap to stick to the leaves, but keep in mind this may require repeated applications and works best on sunny days.
Chemical Options for Clover Control
If clover has spread extensively, herbicides may be the most efficient solution. Look for a selective broadleaf herbicide, which kills clover without harming grass.
- Apply in early spring or fall when clover is actively growing.
- Always follow label instructions carefully.
- Avoid applying during drought or extreme heat to prevent lawn stress.
Spot-treating rather than spraying the entire lawn is often enough for smaller infestations.
Preventing Clover from Returning
Getting rid of clover is only half the battle — preventing it from coming back is just as important.
- Fertilize consistently: Keep nitrogen levels balanced.
- Water deeply and infrequently: Encourage deeper grass roots.
- Overseed bare patches: Fill in thin spots so clover has no room to spread.
- Maintain mowing height: Avoid cutting grass too short.
When your lawn is thick and healthy, clover struggles to gain a foothold.
Should You Keep Clover?
Interestingly, not everyone views clover as a weed. Some homeowners actually welcome it for its low maintenance, nitrogen-fixing ability, and resistance to drought. Clover stays green even in tough conditions, requires less fertilizer, and can attract beneficial pollinators.
However, if your goal is a uniform, grass-only lawn, you’ll want to reduce or eliminate clover.
Final Thoughts
Clover is a sign that your lawn needs a little extra care, often pointing to low nitrogen, compacted soil, or mowing issues. By improving your lawn’s health through fertilization, proper mowing, and soil management, you can get rid of clover and prevent it from returning.
For professional solutions that save you time and deliver lasting results, trust the team at Tick & Turf. Learn more about expert lawn care in Newtown CT and take the first step toward a thick, green, clover-free lawn.