If clover is taking over your lawn, you’re not alone. Many homeowners notice patches of clover appearing seemingly overnight, especially during spring and early summer. While some people don’t mind having clover in their yard, others want a thick, green lawn without weeds competing for space.
The good news is that clover can be eliminated. The key is not only killing the clover you see today but preventing it from returning next season.
Why Clover Takes Over Lawns
Clover thrives when grass struggles.
Common causes include:
- Low nitrogen levels
- Thin grass coverage
- Soil compaction
- Excess moisture
- Mowing too short
- Bare spots in the lawn
Because clover produces much of its own nitrogen, it often outcompetes weak grass and spreads quickly.
Best Products for Killing Clover
1. Ortho WeedClear Lawn Weed Killer (check Amazon)
For most homeowners, a selective lawn herbicide is the fastest way to eliminate clover.
Ortho WeedClear targets clover and many other broadleaf weeds while leaving most lawn grasses unharmed when used correctly.
Pros:
- Easy hose-end application
- Targets clover quickly
- Covers large lawns
Best For: Moderate to heavy clover infestations.
2. BioAdvanced All-In-One Lawn Weed & Crabgrass Killer (check Amazon)
This product works well for homeowners dealing with clover plus other common lawn weeds.
It targets:
- Clover
- Dandelions
- Chickweed
- Crabgrass
Best For: Lawns with multiple weed problems.
3. Crossbow Herbicide (check Amazon)
Crossbow is often recommended for larger properties where clover has become widespread.
Because it is a concentrate, it can be more economical for large yards. Looking at the reviews, it’s great for killing brush too.
Best For: Acreage and large property owners.
Don’t Forget the Sprayer
Chapin Lawn & Garden Pump Sprayer (check Amazon)
If you’re using concentrated herbicides, a quality pump sprayer makes application much easier and more accurate.
Look for:
- Adjustable spray patterns
- Comfortable carrying straps
- Chemical-resistant seals
A good sprayer will last for years and can be used for weed control, insect treatments, and fertilizer applications.
Feed Your Lawn After Treatment
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is killing the clover but doing nothing to improve the grass.
Scotts Turf Builder Lawn Food (check Amazon)
A healthy lawn is your best defense against future clover invasions.
Benefits include:
- Stronger grass growth
- Improved lawn density
- Better weed resistance
As the grass thickens, it naturally crowds out clover and other weeds.
Fill Bare Spots Before Clover Returns
After treatment, many homeowners discover thin areas where clover once grew.
Scotts Turf Builder Grass Seed Sun & Shade Mix (check Amazon)
Overseeding helps:
- Fill bare spots
- Increase lawn density
- Reduce future weed growth
The thicker the grass becomes, the harder it is for clover to establish itself again.
Common Mistakes That Cause Clover to Return
Even after successful treatment, clover often comes back because of these mistakes:
Mowing Too Short
Short grass weakens root systems and creates opportunities for weeds.
Skipping Fertilizer
Clover loves low-nitrogen environments.
Ignoring Bare Spots
Every bare patch becomes an invitation for weeds.
Overwatering
Frequent shallow watering encourages weaker grass roots.
How to Prevent Clover Long-Term
The best long-term strategy is simple:
- Kill existing clover.
- Fertilize regularly.
- Overseed thin areas.
- Mow higher.
- Water deeply but less often.
When your lawn is healthy, clover has very little room to grow.
Final Thoughts
If you’re serious about getting rid of clover, start with a quality selective herbicide such as Ortho WeedClear or BioAdvanced. Follow up with fertilizer and grass seed to strengthen your lawn and prevent future outbreaks.
Most homeowners can dramatically reduce clover within a few weeks and enjoy a thicker, greener lawn throughout the growing season.
If you’re also dealing with ant hills throughout your lawn, check out our guide on getting rid of ant hills in your yard. Best Ant Killers for Lawns, Ant Hills & Large Yards – Upgrade Your Outdoors