Clover Guide

Follow a Consistent Lawn Maintenance Routine

The key to preventing clover from taking hold and spreading is maintaining a well-nourished, healthy lawn. A proper lawn care schedule, including regular fertilization and maintenance, will strengthen your turf and help it resist clover infestations year after year.

How to Apply Granular Lawn Fertilizer

Proper fertilization is the most effective long-term solution for preventing clover in your lawn. Clover thrives in soil with low nitrogen levels, so following a consistent fertilization schedule will ensure your soil maintains the appropriate nitrogen balance.

Regular fertilization not only minimizes clover growth year after year but also strengthens your turf to prevent new clover from taking hold. Fall applications of nitrogen are particularly beneficial in reducing clover infestations the following growing season.

Maintaining a strong and healthy lawn is key to preventing clover and other weeds from invading your turf. A dense, well-maintained lawn will naturally outcompete clover and keep unwanted plants at bay.

Focus on proper drainage, consistent mowing at the correct height, and adequate irrigation throughout the year. The healthier and thicker your lawn grows, the less opportunity clover will have to establish itself.

How to Control Clover

Applying a pre-emergent herbicide in the fall is an effective way to prevent clover from establishing in your lawn. Timing is critical—apply the pre-emergent before the first frost to ensure maximum effectiveness. This timing may vary depending on your location.

For spring applications, apply the pre-emergent after the ground has thawed but before soil temperatures rise to 55 degrees. If you need guidance on the best timing for your area, contact your local extension office for expert advice.