Should I Get Rid Of Clover In My Lawn
There are several reasons you may want to keep clover in your lawn. Due to its symbiotic relationship with bacteria, clover acts as a natural fertilizer. Clover gets its nitrogen from the air and releases it into the soil. Another benefit? Clover outcompetes other weeds. So instead of something unwanted and unsightly, you could have clover.
Leave It To The Experts
For any homeowner who refuses to give up, the alternative to weed spray and battle of wills is to leave it to the lawn experts. They know all the ins and outs of lawn weeds and can offer advice and solutions to send them packing.
You may not have the time or inclination to achieve that bowling green-like lawn, but there is always someone who does. Why not get in touch with a lawn mowing service provider to assist?
Leave Your Soil Alone
Unless youre disturbing the soil to dig up white clover around your lawn, ensure your soil is healthy and leave it be.
Clover seeds number in the thousands per plant. You must avoid bringing these seeds onto the topsoil because this increases the likelihood that the seeds will become a mature plant and a nuisance in your lawn. The seeds are typically brought to the surface by tilling and digging. So give your ground a break, and keep the seeds where they dont receive enough nourishment to mature.
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The Cost Of Weed Control
Want professional help to get rid of weeds like clover? The cost of weed control varies depending on several factors, including the region you live in, the size of your lawn, the health of your lawn, the company youve selected and the service your lawn requires.
Yards with stressed soil and improper mowing height may have higher weed control rates than lawns with healthy soil and grass. To keep your grass and soil healthy and potentially cut lawn service costs, mow the lawn once a week and provide about one to one-and-a-half inches of water each week.
Homes in warmer climates with low irrigation during the summer months may need more water.
What Is The Best Herbicide
Generally speaking, the best herbicide is selective post-emergent broadleaf herbicides. The herbicides that contain Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, Mecoprop, and Dicamba have the best results. These chemicals affect the clovers normal growth patterns and will cause the leaves to fold inward, the weeds to twist, and the stems to crack after they are applied. Generally, Bonides Clover Killer, which contains Mecoprop, works pretty well.
Some homeowners swear by Glyphosate , but it is a non-selective herbicide and will kill any vegetation that it comes into contact with. The herbicides listed above will not affect the surrounding grass but could damage immature plants in your garden. So use caution when applying them in your flower beds.
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Why You May Want To Keep Clover In Your Lawn
You may not like the look of clover, but it can actually benefit your lawn.
- Natural Fertilizer: Clovers symbiotic relationship with beneficial bacteria allows it to absorb nitrogen from the atmosphere. Ultimately, it can make your lawn greener and more lush. However, this will keep it growing and outcompeting your grass.
- Weed Prevention: Mowing your lawn high will prevent weeds from growing, including clover. But if you like short, neat grass thats under 3 inches, letting clover flourish is a solid option. Clovers leaves cast shade over the soil, making it hard for other weeds to take root and grow and compete with your grass.
Why People Want Clover
Above, I had mentioned that there are people who want clover as a lawn for several reasons. Even though this is about what kills clover but not grass, I still feel as though it is only fair to share the reasons why people would want a clover lawn.
- Clover lawns can tolerate droughts better.
- Clover lawns attract bees
- Clover lawns are resistant to pet urine
- Clover lawns are inexpensive to maintain and rarely have to be mowed.
When it comes to knowing what kills clover but not grass, people have many options open to them. They can either get in there with their bare hands and pull the clover out by the roots, they can fertilize and water their yard to bring up the nitrogen levels and make sure their yard is hydrated.
They could even make sure to mow their grass high and not cut their grass below three inches.
Awareness of what your lawn needs and when your lawn needs it goes a long way when it comes to preventing issues like invasive clover patches. Once I learned how to properly take care of my lawn and when to fertilize it and how much water to give, I no longer had a problem with clover.
The best way to get rid of something is to prevent it from becoming an issue.
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Use A Nitrogen Rich Fertilizer On Your Lawn
Clover preys upon lawns that are deficient in nitrogen and have low soil fertility. Using nitrogen-rich fertilizer or weed n feed products will ensure that your nitrogen levels are sufficient. The healthy and thick grass growth that results will not afford the weeds enough room to begin their hostile takeover.
Its also important to remember that higher phosphorus levels in your lawn promote clover invasion on your lawn. Keep that in mind when you go to fertilize your lawn. Because you will need adequate phosphorus levels to keep your lawn healthy, but a surplus of the nutrient can support the growth of these weeds.
Using An Organic Weed Killer
There is an excellent organic weed killer available online called A.D.I.O.S. which is an eco-friendly post-emergent control used on broadleaf weeds. It is non-toxic and can be used in parks, playgrounds, lawns, gardens, flower beds, and many other places. It uses selective weed control which means it will not harm the grass or surrounding plants, only the clover or other weeds it touches. It is an excellent choice if none of the other options are feasible.
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When Should I Spray My Lawn For Clover
The best time to spray White Clover is before the temperature reaches the 80s. The best made for retail product usually recommended is a herbicide called Turflon Ester Ultra. It is often effective on clover during the warmer months because, in warmer months, clover might grow right through the weaker herbicides.
Clover: Friend Or Foe
Up until WWII, clover was commonplace in American yards. In fact, many grass seed mixes included clover, as it works as an excellent ground cover in areas with poor soils and wont hurt your grass. Plus, its flowers attract bees, which are important pollinators. Since then, though, a lush, uniform green lawn minus the clover has become the ideal.
So it comes down to this: If clover has become an intruder on your happy green space, you need to take action. Follow these simple tips kill the clover in your lawn.
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The Soil Ph Levels In Your Soil Are Wrong
Clover can thrive in soil conditions that are unsuitable for grass. Grass does not do well in pH levels that are too low or too high, but clover does well in almost any pH level. The more acidic your soil is the harder it is for your grass to grow and much easier for clover. Luckily, you can use soil amendments like lime to balance out the pH.
Depriving Clover Of Oxygen
Another natural way to get rid of clover is to deprive it of oxygen and sunlight and not allowing it to grow. To do this, place a plastic sheet or garbage bag over the clover patch, securing the corners so it wont blow away. This should kill the weeds in a couple of weeks, but dont use this method long-term or the surrounding grass could be damaged as well. This is a good method for larger patches of clover.
This method is also helpful to get rid of other types of weeds like crabgrass that may be on your lawn. Its effective if you have the time to put into it.
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Reasons For Killing Clover
With so much going for it, you may wonder why some homeowners consider clover a weed. But they do, and here are some of the reasons they would give:
- Lawn purists often crave uniformity in a lawn. They feel that a lawn should be composed of nothing but grass, giving it a clean, even look.
- Clover puts out a flower that attracts bees. If you have small children playing on the lawn, this can be an unpleasant experience for them.
- Likewise, due to the fact that clover attracts bees, adults may wish to kill it if they are active on their lawns during the summertime.
- If you will be putting your property on the real estate market soon, you should be tailoring your landscaping to what the average buyer wants. Most people prefer the look of a lawn with no weeds, including clover weeds.
However, there is a way to deal with the concern over bee stings without killing your clover. To be on the safe side, simply make sure to mow during the blooming season for clover .
Natural Ways To Get Rid Of Clover In Your Lawn
Does your lawn have clover? Do you just detest the sight of it? Believe me, I know how that feels. But while clover may not look so great in your all-green lawn, especially white clover, it has its benefits.
However, if you are looking for how to get rid of clover in your lawn, I have put this guide together to offer you a solution.
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Clover Provides Food For Bees And Butterflies
Clover species have very sweet, nectar-rich flowers that attract pollinators honey bees, bumblebees, butterflies, and hoverflies.
In times of great pollinator crisis, this is a nice way to contribute to the fight for our planets health. However, it may have a downside .
Side note: if you are afraid of wasps, good news. Clover doesnt attract many yellowjackets or hornets since the shape of its flowers makes it difficult for wasps to access their nectar.
Does Vinegar Kill Clover
While vinegar and dish soap is a popular method for getting rid of clover, vinegar on its own works well too. Im a bit wary about using the types bought from a restaurant supply businesses or farmers stores as the acetic acid content is higher, which makes it unsafe for human contact.
As mentioned with the vinegar and dish soap method, use a spray bottle and get really close to the clover to spray it.
Believe me, you dont want this getting on the grass or your other plants.
Not only will it make your grass ill, but it would even kill it, leaving bald spots on your lawn.
Depending on the type of clover you have, sometimes multiple applications may be needed to rid yourself of the clover. With weeds, it is generally best to wait until they are in their active growth stage. If you dont catch them in their active growth stage, then multiple applications may be needed for the best results.
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Covering Clover With Plastic Sheets
Covering clover with a dark plastic sheet such as a garbage bag will deprive it of two key elements sunlight and oxygen. Additionally, if it is in a sunny position, the plastic will sort of steam-cook the plants beneath it.
The method is practical only for larger, homogenous clover patches, as all plants will be affected by covering, including the surrounding turf.
Preventing Lawn Clover Weeds Through Proper Lawn Care
After using one of our recipes to kill clover, there are steps to take to ensure that your lawn is healthy and full and remains weed-free. Weeds have a hard time thriving in a healthy yard, so this form of weed control is essential. If your grass has mossy patches in it, try using a moss killing soap to remove it.
- Grass seed
A natural ingredient that is considered a pre-emergent herbicide is corn gluten meal, which prevents clover weeds from germinating. Not only that, but corn meal is also an organic fertilizer with nutritional properties such as nitrogen.
In early spring, spread 20 pounds of powdered corn gluten meal for every 1,000 square feet of lawn. Follow this by watering the grass and then ensure that it remains dry for three days after treatment.
When mowing your lawn, set the mower height to three inches to prevent damaging the grass. The tall grass blades prevent the sun from feeding clover, therefore, preventing it from thriving.
Your lawn grass needs approximately an inch of water per week to remain healthy. Anything less than that will cause weeds to begin taking over your lawn. During dry times of the season, use a sprinkler to ensure the grass is getting the water it needs.
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Consider Clover’s Benefits Before Deciding To Get Rid Of It
You may be determined to kill the clover in your lawn, but, before you do so, consider the many good qualities of clover . It stays just as green as grass does during the summer, and perhaps more so because it has better drought-tolerance, does not require fertilization, and does not suffer discoloration from dog urine. It crowds out weeds. Harmful insects leave it alone and beneficial insects are attracted to it. It is soft to walk on like grass but, unlike grass, it does not need to be mowed often, nor does the soil underneath clover become compacted due to heavy foot traffic.
The Benefits And Why Clover Went Out Of Style
* Editorial Note: LawnStarter may receive a commission if you purchase certain products mentioned in this article.
Clover hasnt always been the bane of every lawn lovers existence.
Sure, ripping it out as soon as it creeps into your perfectly manicured turf might be a good way to fit into your neighborhood nowadays. But this lawn care tidbit could surprise you: Several decades ago, killing clover was not at all in vogue. It was a standard part of grass seed mixes.
With more homeowners today avoiding the use of pesticides, its likely clovers could come back in style again as a wonderful part of your lawn. Shocked and awed? Why would anyone want to reintroduce whats considered a weed back into their lawn?
Looking to plant a clover lawn? Here are our top picks for clover seed:AdvertisementAs an Amazon Associate, LawnStarter earns from qualifying purchases.
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Why Is There So Much Clover In My Lawn
There are multiple reasons you could have clover in your lawn, most of which have to do with your soil condition and soil fertility.
- Wrong Soil pH: The alkaline or acidic soil of the soil is measured by its pH. This is usually between 6.0 and 7.0 for most lawns. If your lawns soil is overly acidic, grass will struggle to grow, while clover and other broadleaf weeds will thrive. Luckily, soil amendments such as lime can help to level the pH and prevent clover growth.
- Poor Nitrogen Levels: Clover is a perennial weed that thrives in low-nitrogen soils. Grass needs nitrogen from the soil to thrive, whereas clover can get its nitrogen from the air and thus its own fertilizer. You may have used too much fast-acting fertilizer, resulting in a nitrogen deficiency in your soil. While they promote quick grass growth, they might ultimately degrade the quality of your soil. You can avoid this by using organic fertilizers like manure or cornmeal.
- Compacted soil prevents your lawn from accessing the nutrients, air, and water it needs. With a core or spike aerator, you can naturally break up compaction in your lawn and help stop clover in your lawn.
Types Of Clover That Grow In Missouri
There are 51 different types of clover. The two most common types found in Missouri are White Clover and Red Clover. Red Clover is the most widely grown of all the true clovers. It is usually grown intentionally in prairies or for hay crops. It has dark pink flowers and stems that grow until about 14 inches. You most likely will not find it on your lawn.
What is more likely to grow in your lawn is White Clover. White Clover is fairly easy to identify. Each stem has three petal-shaped leaves,it is usually dark green and sprouts pale pink flowers that grow around six inches. This clover can reseed itself under favorable conditions and spread rapidly. It grows best under cool, moist weather conditions.
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Adjust Your Mowing Height
Mowing over clover with a lawnmower is a temporary way to control clover growth. Most people think that lowering their mowers height, so it sits closer to the ground is the most effective way to control clover. The opposite is true.
Clover is a low-growing weed and offers a shallow root system. Allowing your grass to grow taller blocks the sunlight clover needs to grow.
Homemade Clover Killer With Vinegar
White vinegar contains the active ingredient, acetic acid, which is useful to use as an herbicide. Spraying certain weeds with vinegar causes them to turn brown and eventually die after repeated applications. Try this homemade weed killer for killing clover with vinegar as a safe alternative to using herbicidal chemicals such as dicamba found in Roundup.
- Spray bottle
To make this DIY organic weed killer, pour vinegar into a garden sprayer or spray bottle and add a squirt of dish soap. Shake gently dont make too many bubbles/ The dish soap helps the white vinegar stick to the clover weeds, enabling the acetic acid to work better.
This method works best to get rid of broadleaf plantain and other weeds if performed on a non-breezy and sunny day with no rain in the immediate forecast. Set the sprayer nozzle to stream to prevent over-spraying other plants in flower beds and spot-treat the weeds by spraying them directly with the vinegar solution.
Repeat every couple of days until the weeds are dead. Use a shovel to remove the dead plant, making sure to remove the root system to prevent regrowth.
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