| Over the last few years my neighbors horrible lawn has caused my lawn to develop large patches of clovers. This year they are really getting out of control. How do I rid my lawn of these clovers without damaging the good grass that is intertwined with the clovers? Thank you in advance for your time. |
| The most effective method of controlling clovers is to maintain a dense and healthy turf area. Often weeds can be easily kept out if the nutrient levels are optimal. If so, a corn-gluten based herbicide can be use to control the weeds. Use 10 pounds per 1,000 sq ft every 120 days simply as a fertilizer as well. Mowing height and the frequency of mowing also will deter these weeds. These methods are by far the best way to keep clovers from invading your garden. At this point you'll want to use an alternative approach to getting rid of clover in the lawn and then put your lawn on a regular maintenance schedule of watering, mowing, feeding and using pre-emergent herbicides. Pulling weeds by hand works in small lawns, but chemical control is sometimes necessary especially, when managing large areas. Always read and follow directions on label and keep pets and children away! For broadleaf weeds such as clover use a mixture containing the phenoxy-type herbicide, 2,4-D, MCPP and dicamba salt (such as Trimec, found in Weed-No-More). Beware that dicamba can damage tree and shrub roots so apply carefully. Some recommend adding 2 teaspoons of dishwashing detergent to the application to help it better adhere to the clover's waxy type leaf. This weed killer will get rid of the clover but leave your lawn looking green. Best wishes with your eradication project! |
