White clover and related species are low-growing legumes that form spreading patches in turf. Clover can be valued by pollinators, but it becomes objectionable where uniform turf is required.
How to Identify Clover
White clover has three rounded leaflets, often with a pale crescent mark, and clusters of white-to-pink flowers. Creeping stems root at nodes and enlarge patches.
Why It Appears in Turf
Low available nitrogen, thin turf, compacted soil, and open areas favor clover. Its nitrogen-fixing ability helps it compete where turf nutrition is inadequate.
Make the Site Less Favorable
Maintain the recommended mowing height and avoid scalping.
Correct irrigation, drainage, compaction, fertility, or shade problems that thin desirable turf.
Repair bare areas and use adapted turf cultivars to close openings where seedlings establish.
Choosing a Turf Herbicide
Use the products below as a starting point, then match the herbicide to the desirable turf species and the weed's growth stage. Preemergence products must be applied and activated before germination; postemergence products work best on small, actively growing weeds. Repeat applications may be needed where the label allows.
Label note: Confirm the desirable turf species, use site, target weed, application timing, rate, adjuvant directions, and reseeding restrictions on the current label before use.
